Writing the Memoir Short Courses

Our Writing the Memoir one-day workshop provides students with a firm grounding in key aspects of writing a memoir.

Why choose this course?

The workshop is most suitable for those new to memoir writing. More experienced writers are also welcome, though should be aware this is an introductory course.

Bring paper and pen and expect to take notes and bring ideas and questions too.

Course overview

Writing the Memoir is the only course of its kind, piloted by Monique Roffey since June 2015. She now teaches it at City, University of London, MMU, at The Manchester Writing School, and for Skyros Writers’ Lab.

It has attracted numerous people with very strong stories to tell, some of which have made it into the mainstream press and media.

If you have a true story to tell and have been wondering how to start writing about it, this introduction to memoir writing workshop is for you.

You will be introduced to a few essential ideas and questions you must consider before starting to write a memoir.

Topics covered

The day will take the form of two workshops. In this time there will be presentations, some theory to discuss, handouts, discussions and some writing exercises. We will be examining one or two key ideas on how to tackle writing about the truth. You will have the chance to read from your work and discuss your ideas in a safe peer group.

Morning writing workshop

• The five things that make a good memoir
• Virginia Woolf’s ideas around Moments of Non-Being vs. Moments of Being
• The difference between autobiography, autobiographical fiction and memoir
• A chance to write down some early memories

Afternoon writing workshop

• Telling the Truth
• The problems of memory and subjectivity
• Tackling taboo material

Please bring a photograph of yourself taken at a memorable occasion.