On this month’s fifth Thursday, we tap into the wisdom of accomplished authors.
Let’s look at three quotes about the universality of memoir. Universality relates to how we write about our personal experiences, reaching beyond the specific details of our lives to better connect with readers.
You don’t have to hike the Pacific Crest Trail to relate to Cheryl Strayed’s grief and emotional emptiness.
Both Ralph Waldo Emerson and Vivian Gornick, in her classic The Situation and the Story, remind us that it’s not just about what happened. It’s the meaning we find in it.
If you’re writing for the public, universality matters. If you’re writing for yourself, family, and friends, it may not be as necessary.
But whether your stories are universal or personal, always remember, the only way to do this wrong is to not do it at all!
Until next time, happy writing, everybody!
Many of us have similar stories and feelings, and I think David said it correctly by suggesting that we are pretty similar in that. What makes us different is how we deal with all that happens to us. I get inspired by what I read and by what I observe. I may not immediately see myself in somebody else’s circumstance, but often I ask myself if I also do the things I like or dislike in others. It’s amazing what we can discover that way.
Universality is the reason why I want to publish my book traditionally. My message is loud and clear – hate is universal. It comes in many shapes and forms, not just antisemitism. Here are some examples: racism, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, etc. I can go on, but I know you all know what I am talking about. In a society that is divided as much as ours, my voice must be heard. Maybe it will heal the open wounds that are still festering because if I was able to overcome the injustices inflicted upon me and become a better person,… Read more »
We need stories that show triumph over hate. I know you will be successful.
Thank you, Dave. I appreciate your support.
Food for thought.
It’s always interesting to see how the author gets the reader involved with the story and gets them to care enough about the characters and the plot to finish it.
We read books because we care about the characters and because we can relate.
As a writer I want to evolve. I first worked on telling the story, drawing a picture, getting the narrative down. But the next step,a quantum leap, is to tell the truth about the experience, what it meant to me, and reveal something about myself. This is a big step and a difficult one for me, but still my goal. I think that in telling the truth the story becomes universal because we share a common set of emotions and humanity.
Dave, as a writer you are evolving. Your stories are getting better and better every day. Revealing the truth about yourself is hard, but if it is for the right reason, then it is our responsibility to tell.
I like the fact that you included a feeling of responsibility to tell the story of your truth. Indeed, it does impact others and can make a difference.
Great advice and guidance! Thank you.