What to Include in a Memoir or Family History Book
Biff Barnes at Stories to Tell has again caught my attention with his post: "What to Include in a Memoir or Family History Book."
His quote from essayist, writer, poet and author Phillip Lopate: "The selection has to do with what events or parts you choose to highlight. However, you don’t have to put everything in there. People are under the mistaken impression when they first start that if they can’t tell one secret, then they have to be reserved. You can be very unbuttoned about some things and still keep secret about many others."
Be sure to read what Biff and Lopate have to say about 'reflective nonfiction' referred to here: 'That reflective element is particularly important for memoirists and family historians who are trying to convey a real life on a printed page.'
These thoughts are very important to me, as two of my next projects are a nonfiction account of my 5th great grandfather and a personal memoir about my years as a university professor. I know I can use a lot of good advise from those who have gone before. How about you?
Happy Reading,
Dr. Bill ;-)
Thanks again, Dr. Bill! I am glad you enjoyed the post.
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