The course is made up of 8 modules. Each concentrates on a particular element of memoir writing. The first section of each module introduces the theme and is followed by a series of writing exercises that do not have to be submitted for review, but are just as important to the overall progress of the course (these exercises might include areas of research into family history or a particular setting for example, interviews and character studies).

Modules

1.

Introduction to Memoir Writing: Structure and the Writing Process

2.

Truth in Memoir

3.

Writing Real People

4.

Your Voice and the Voice of Others

5.

The Substance of Story

6.

Scene and Summary

7.

Word Choice and Description

8.

Putting It All Together

Every module includes an assignment that you will submit for critical appraisal where the focus is placed on the craft of writing compelling prose. When you send in your completed assignment, I will review it and return it back to you with comments within 3 working days. If you wish to re-edit and submit the work again you have the opportunity to do so at this point although it is not obligatory. At the end of each module and review there are tips on structuring, organising and researching. In the final module you will be asked to write 7000 words. These could be the opening of a full length memoir or passages that are interconnected or alternatively a selection of your work that can stand alone as a personal essay.

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