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ERNEST HEMINGWAY. “For sale: Baby shoes, never worn.”. SIX-WORD MEMOIR is 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?.
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ERNEST HEMINGWAY “For sale: Baby shoes, never worn.”
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!
“Mo ‘nack peas. I walk now.” Anyone with language can master this skill.
The Writing Process….. • Focus on words that represent who you are. (Search for strong nouns and verbs.) • Just write! Use the chart and spend time playing with words. Avoid being random; use a verb to tie it together.