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Anecdotes in memoir
Asked by Antoinette Greenway on May 20, 2020
Hi Jerry
My WIP fits best into the genre of memoir, because I learnt and grew from the experiences. However, not every anecdote specifically contributes to the character arc. Some simply add to the richness of life as a missionary in Africa, describing characters met along the way, or amusing experiences. Will that work?
Thanks, Antoinette
Jerry's Answer
Actually it won't, Antoinette. Every anecdote should buttress your theme--which in a memoir should be, in essence, here's who I was, what I learned, and who I am now. The benefit should be to the reader, implying that whatever their life and issues, they can learn from yours.
The toughest thing to avoid will be driving home whatever point you're trying to make. The reader will apply what applies and doesn't need to be taught. Telling the stories well will do the job. :)