whats a memoir

A written work in which the author remembers a certain time or span of time in his/her life ... in detail.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/memoir

A memoir is a non-fiction genre of literature that recounts personal experiences and events from the author's life. It is a form of autobiographical writing that focuses on specific moments, themes, or periods of the author's life and provides insights, reflections, and lessons learned from those experiences.

To understand what a memoir is, you can follow these steps:

1. Read the definition: Start by reading the definition of a memoir, either in a dictionary or online. This will give you a basic understanding of what it is.

2. Research examples: Look for examples of memoirs. This can be done by searching online or visiting a library or bookstore. Reading different memoirs will give you a better understanding of the genre and the different styles and approaches authors take when writing their personal stories.

3. Analyze literary elements: Analyze the literary elements commonly found in memoirs. Look for characteristics such as first-person narration, personal reflection, and a focus on specific events or time periods. Identify how these elements contribute to making a memoir distinct from other forms of autobiographical writing.

4. Understand the purpose: Consider the purpose of a memoir. Unlike an autobiography, which aims to provide a comprehensive account of one's life, a memoir focuses on specific moments or themes. It often has a central message or lesson the author wants to convey through their personal experiences.

By following these steps, you will be able to gain a good understanding of what a memoir is and how it differs from other forms of autobiographical writing.