A guide for the writer just setting out, or for those already embroiled in the task of writing anything based on personal experience. Aiming to avoid ...
Show synopsis
A guide for the writer just setting out, or for those already embroiled in the task of writing anything based on personal experience. Aiming to avoid oversimplifying what is involved, Judith Barrington tackles both the emotional issues, such as reliving painful memories, and the practical ones, such as bringing stories and people to life on the page, and finding the appropriate form in which to write. She talks about the subtleties of the relationship between factual and emotional truth and the distinction between initial reaction to trauma and the writing of layered experience after the lapse of time. While writing memoir or, in broader terms, writing from personal experience, is the book's focus, its step-by-step approach and exercises also provide accessible advice for the development of writing skills in general. It includes advice and exercises about finding form, planning dialogue, dealing with time and using description.
Hide synopsis
