Having written virtually my entire life story at one time or another, the most common question I get about them is how I remembered so many details and events. How to tap into those memories is the biggest obstacle for memoir writers. Over time, and the course of hundreds of short story memoirs, I have discovered a system that helps me to remember the important details. Here is how to tap into your memories and write outstanding memoirs every single time:
The first thing I do when I decide to write a memoir is get out the old picture box. I have an old picture box that is full to brimming with family photos, mementos, and other important things from our family history. By going through these old photos, I can often trigger forgotten memories, details, and important events simply by browsing. As I think of different memories, I jot them down for future use. One single picture can sometimes bring back an entire block of memories. Sometimes the picture even is the memory.
Once I have zeroed in on a memoir that I want to write, I talk with my family and extended family about what they remember. Sometimes the memories clash with one another depending on age, perspective, and where we were in our lives at the time. This opens an interesting question for some memoir writers. Do you write the memoir as others say is fact, or do you write the memoir as you remember it? I always write the memoir as I remember it for one simple important reason. It is my memoir. Why would I use someone else’s memories over my own? Even if they are accurate and mine are not, it would not be true to my own memory if I wrote it based on them.
The next thing I do when writing a memoir is to outline the article or story. I always write a basic time line as well as what will happen when in the memoir. This gives the memoir structure and it also helps you to organize your own memories. The best way to recollect something is to put it on paper. When you do this time line, make sure you write it down manually and not on the computer first. The act of pencil hitting paper forces you to think and it helps your memory.
When you are stuck for event details, and need to remember ages, years, and other black and white type information, consult with parents, uncles, aunts, and other adults at the time of the event. They can usually help you pinpoint the specific time frame and maybe even help you remember some things you had forgotten.
When I write a memoir, I always have music from the time period playing in the background. Music is a powerful memory trigger, and it can truly give your memoir a dated, realistic feel. I have often wished that I could embed a song into my article to accompany the memoir. I think it would truly add to the ambiance of the article and so add to the enjoyment.
Once I have written the rough draft of the memoir, I will sit quietly and read it a few times. You will be surprised at how many memories will pop up simply while reading your own work. Sometimes you can add them into the memoir, and sometimes you can use them for later.
Tapping into your memories for writing a memoir is actually a rather easy process once you set the mood and organize yourself for the task. Use others memories, but not in place of your own. Play some dated music, and write a solid outline after searching through old photos for ideas. Always read your own work and look for ways to improve or add to your memoir. If you do these simple things, your memories will find their way onto the paper, and you will be writing a memoir of epic proportions.
