ERNEST HEMINGWAY

“For sale: Baby shoes, never worn.”

SIX-WORD MEMOIRis born!

Smith College’s challenge to its graduates:

Create a memoir about your life (grammar doesn’t count) using just

6 words.

The result…………………

MEMOIR- what does it mean?

• Description of an actual event/memory.

• Usually focuses on a specific time in someone’s life, not his/her entire life.

• Can be a way that you like to live your life- an inspirational message.

SIX-WORD MEMOIR SITE

“29 years old, still playing Lego.” “Football, eat, sleep: Repeat step one.” “My life is a perpetual Monday.” “Been loved. Been hated. Been ME!” “Cursed with cancer. Blessed with friends.” “Oscar the Grouch became Elmo-finally!”

From the Mouths of Teens: I‘m still scared of a B+.

Sometimes I secretly watch Hannah Montana.

I haven’t cried in seven years.

I gave my heart and soul.

My diary is read by everyone.

I’m shy, but not on paper. 

I gave my heart and soul. Superpowers would make things easier. I don’t rock; Guitar Hero lies. Thirteenth birthday, no word from Dad. I still read children’s fiction books.

Can I be eleven forever, please? My single mom raised me well. Show your bravery, wear silver spandex. I giggle to cover all emotions. School. Soccer. Sweat. Rinse.

Homework. Repeat.

Why just 6 words? Precision in language: Every word you choose you must feel

attached to, that it is there for a reason. Each word must serve a purpose. The result of the six word memoir is a line that BEST expresses who you are right now. Remember, clarity of thought.

So, you must be specific!

My 18-month old child……

“Mo ‘nack peas. I walk now.”

Anyone with language can master this skill.

The Writing Process…..

1. Focus on words that represent who you are. (Search for strong nouns and verbs.)

2. Just write! Use the chart and spend time playing with words. Avoid being random; use a verb to tie it together.