Dear Reader,

In today’s lecture, we discovered “What Makes a Memoir” led by Rita Banerjee. The overall message I received from this class is that memoir is part of our every day routine. You don’t need to be an expert to write one, but memoir requires vulnerability and can push us into an areas of discomfort. At times, I even have a hard time telling my own life story to others. But the great part about writing a memoir is you can choose how you want it written by claiming your own voice and experiences. Michelle Zauner’s Crying in H Mart is a great example of raw and authentic writing. Another one of my favorite examples is Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. I couldn’t help both envy and be inspired by the journey she took. She had so much will to take a year off and reclaim herself, particularly in a world that wants us to staying grounded and focused in our established careers and community. These are both great reads and fantastic examples of memoirs.

Later on in the day, we had writing time and time to explore the city. I decided to visit the Louvre. I could not believe the size of this museum, I could have spent all day in there. Now, I did see the infamous Mona Lisa, and there was a long line to see her up close. Museum goers waited anxiously to get a glimpse, raising their arms over the sea of people in hopes that their camera could capture her wry smile. I couldn’t help but wonder, if she were to write her own memoir, what would she include in it? What’s her story? What was truly at stake in her life? How different was her life compared to mine?

I pondered these questions as I moved throughout the museum and observed other sculptures and paintings. As I walked further into the depth of the museum, I then began to question the artists who created these works of art. What story were they trying to convey in each one of their works? What sort of struggles or triumphs were they itching to tell? I think one great aspect about a memoir is that it gives you a chance to claim your story, and there is power in that. As I wrap up this post, Rita left us on an encouraging note and said “Don’t have the journey planned, see where your writing takes you. Let the structure bubble through you.” I plan to use these words as inspiration as I tease out my own memoir.

Sincerely,

Corrine Previte, Manager

Cambridge Writers’ Workshop