Welcome to your first day of Micro-Memoir: The Art of Writing Short! If you didn’t make the kickoff party, you might want to watch the replay here. We defined micro-memoir, talked about the necessity of focusing on a moment in writing short, discussed how and why micro-memoir works, and a whole lot more. This video gives you the background to start the challenge with confidence.

We start off the week writing list micro-memoirs by looking at three different approaches—a list poem, a list narrative, and a topical list. Make sure you check out the attachments below as each version is discussed.

The maximum word count for today is 400 words. You can write fewer words but not more, not even 401, and remember, all words count, even the little ones. Please post your word count along with your story.

If you’d like, use the handout below to create a cluster or mindmap of possible story ideas. Print out several blank cluster diagrams and use them to focus your story on a moment that involves only a few people. If you’ve not yet watched the How to Cluster video, you may want to do that first.

When you’ve settled on what you wish to write, create a draft of the story. Post your work in the comments section below and then read a few of your fellow challengers’ stories and include a word or two of encouragement. Happy writing!