Your Life Story - #2

Ever thought of writing your autobiography? Maybe you don't think you have anything special enough to share. You haven't invented anything; you're not a war hero or a rock star; nothing important has happened to you. But I guarantee you do have a lot to share. Your life matters. You don't even have to plan on publishing your story. Maybe it's just for yourself or your family or others close to you.

If you're interested in trying an autobiography, I thought a series of assignments might help. You'll mail each assignment to 2 partners. This should be NO MORE THAN 25 double spaced pages (approx. 6200 words) so as not to overwhelm your partner.

Assignment 2 is for a descriptive piece. Although the focus of this is descriptive, it will naturally have emotional overtones. Choose a particular memory from your life. It might be positive or negative, from childhood or as an adult. See if you can make a reader share that memory. What did you see, hear, taste, feel, smell? What was the initial impression? Did it change or did you become aware of other overtones as time passed? Exactly what feelings were evoked? Why do you still remember it and what effect did it have on you?

Possible subjects are "firsts" from your past: like a 1st car, house, day of school, sexual experience, illness or accident, a creation or an action. Maybe something or someone who was important to you. If you want to add more ideas, please do so in the comments below in order to give others ideas.

Be as specific as you possibly can. Concentrate on the SENSES and on facts. I remember once reading in a writer's instructional book, about how one classmate who wanted to rouse anti-animal-cruelty feelings put in a lot of emotional adverbs and adjectives. The professor then asked another student who was a hunter to describe details of hunting, killing and cleaning an animal. Everyone in the class was more effected by that description than by the first writer.

The difference between this exercise and a journal is to create a story out of it, not just a narrative. Any questions, just let me know.

I hope your partners will let you know how well you succeed but the rating should not be based on that. Come on, members, take a chance! You've gotta start writing somewhere. I've found the people in this group to be kind and supportive.

Recap: 1 descriptive memory from your life. NO MORE THAN 25 double-spaced pages (6200 words). Snail mail. 2 partners. Receiving partner, please maintain confidentiality and kindness. All level and type of writers welcome.