A memoir is a story retrieved from the author’s memory, with the writer as protagonist—the “I” remembering and commenting on events described in the essay. Memoir tends to place the emphasis on the story, and the “point” is likely to emerge, as it does in fiction, largely from the events and characters themselves, rather than the through the author’s speculation and reflection.
The personal essay has its origin in something that has happened in the writer’s life, but it may be something that happened yesterday afternoon, or it may represent an area of interest deliberately explored, and it is likely to give rise to reflection or intellectual exploration. In his book, The Art of the Personal Essay, Philip Lopate refers to the personal essay as, “…the drive toward candor and self-exposure.
Assignment: Write narrative style essays for the following prompts as indicated:
Memoir
People often say “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Describe a time when you misjudged someone based on his or her appearance or when someone misjudged you.
Personal Essay
The way a person handles disappointment reveals a great deal about what is important to him or her. Tell about a time in your life when you confronted disappointment and how you handled it.
The essays should be at least 250 words but no more than 750 words. Essays are due Wednesday, November 10th at the beginning of class. Also, please post them on your blogs.
Hopefully people will give you a nice essay--including myself.
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