10 Comments

Love this so much---getting knocked out with my own fist on the regular these days. Still surprised how surprised I am by each chapter. Also, not sure if you have read Gabrielle Hamilton, but she says writing a memoir is like having a UTI--it burns and drips ;) Here's the article. https://thecreativeindependent.com/people/chef-and-author-gabrielle-hamilton-on-needing-to-tell-the-truth-in-your-work/

Do you have any kind of groups you do with authors or is it more 1-on-1 work?

Expand full comment
author

Hi Jackie, I totally feel you. Whenever I write personal material, it is like a fist and hug simultaneously. Haha. I haven't read this article yet. Thanks for sharing it!

I have a writing group for women called The Sacred First Draft Club. My current group wraps up this summer and I plan to relaunch another one in Fall. :) I'd love to have ya!

Expand full comment

This checklist is so real! I like to describe memoir/personal essay writing as equal parts catharsis and torture. Thank you for compiling this list.

Expand full comment
author

Ah, thanks so much!

Expand full comment

I love this so much, what a great resource thanks for sharing!!

Expand full comment
author

You're so welcome! I'm thankful it spoke to you.

Expand full comment

Many thanks. Every time I start writing something memoir-ish I end up stopping because it turns out I am still being too superficial. Each fresh start is peeling back the layers of the onion.

Expand full comment
author

Hi Sharon! Oh, the onion metaphor is so real in writing. Every time we show up, the page asks us to be a little more honest. I'm proud of you for showing up and opening your heart.

Expand full comment

Oh, man, thank you - - this was exactly what I needed today.

Expand full comment
author

I am so thankful to hear it! Sending lots of love your way as you write your story. :)

Expand full comment