(AC Spring 2023) Writing Memoir 1: Getting Started

The things we love about engaging memoirs are also what make them challenging to write. The best memoirs do more than capture memories and experiences. They help put our lives in context, explore their meaning and reveal emotional truths. They tell the stories of our lives.

Whether you hope to publish a memoir or chronicle periods of your life as a personal project, this supportive workshop focuses on how to write about your experiences with clarity and style, specificity and substance. Participants might be contemplating a book-length memoir or looking to write shorter pieces. New York Times bestselling memoirist Marja Mills will offer instruction, share excerpts from a variety of compelling memoirs and personal essays, and lead discussions on how to overcome obstacles and dilemmas. These include where to start, how to organize material and what to include.

Each week, students will do short exercises, with guidance on writing and revising this material into polished passages.  A substantial portion of each class will be devoted to participants reading aloud their short passages for discussion and, along with the instructor, offering constructive comments and suggestions on one another’s work. 

QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS COURSE? Visit our FAQ page or e-mail Operations Manager Matt Rezin.

DISCOUNT FOR ACADEMY MEMBERS: Members receive a 10% discount Member Rate on this course (discount applied during registration). Not an Academy member? Choose the "Member Rate + Membership" option during registration to receive your discount rate. Academy Members receive discounts on courses, contests, and ticketed events, as well as an annual subscription to Wisconsin People & Ideas magazine.