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Exploring the Power of Language: Six-Word MemoirsWhat is a memoir? Two definitions: “A memoir is how one remembers one’s own life, while an autobiography is history, requiring research, dates, facts double-checked” —from Palimpsest by Gore Vidal (Penguin, 1996) “Unlike autobiography, which moves in a dutiful line from birth to fame, memoir narrows the lens, focusing on a time in the writer’s life that was unusually vivid, such as childhood or adolescence, or that was framed by war or travel or public service or some other special circumstance” —p. 15 of Inventing the Truth: The Art and Craft of Memoir by William Zinsser (Mariner Books, 1998)Legend has it that famous author, Ernest Hemingway, was once challenged to write a story in only six words. He responded with this classic line: “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.”We will use this assignment to examine the power of language, particularly as the challenge will be to capture your life, or a moment from your life, in only six words.Tips for writing 6WM:It only works if it’s personal. Because it’s a memoir, it should be specific to your life.Limitations force you to be creative. Write a great memoir BECAUSE of the parameter, not in spite of it.Get inspired by reading other memoirs. Here are some examples, some written by teens…“Cursed with cancer. Blessed with friends.”“I colored outside of the lines.”“Got three sisters and no dad.”“I still make coffee for two.”“Some cross-eyed kid, forgotten then found.”“Nobody cared, then they did. Why?”“It isn’t easy being someone else.”Like any other piece, make revisions. Put the six best words in the best order. Synonyms strengthen memoirs and add meaning.For this Friday, I would like you to write 4, 6-word memoirs. They may pertain to your life overall, or a specific moment or memory. Please use this opportunity to practice strong word choice. You may use the back of this paper. ................
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