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Autobiography and Narrative

Autobiography and Narrative. Using the Self as a Source for Composition and Writing. What is Autobiography?. Telling stories about key events in your life Describing the people or the places playing an important role in the story

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Autobiography and Narrative

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  1. Autobiography and Narrative Using the Self as a Source for Composition and Writing

  2. What is Autobiography? • Telling stories about key events in your life • Describing the people or the places playing an important role in the story • Explaining the “autobiographical significance” of your story—as in, why tell it?

  3. Revisit the past Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, etc. Think deeply about the meaning of the experience Public vrs. Private—TMI or just right? Think about your audience and the particular occasion of the telling; why would you share the story? How can you help readers experience the story as you experienced it? What makes a good autobiography?

  4. Writing Situations for Autobiography • The dreaded “personal essay” for your college applications OR your work/employment cover letter • Recalling events from childhood for a psychology or sociology class • Management Skills workshops for Business Executives learning to be good leaders

  5. Autobiographical essays take a “slice” of life, not an entire life history The autobiographical essay uses particular markers to share with readers the scope of the essay Learn how to write one by reading one

  6. Autobiographical Markers • Begin by providing a context (Why is the event meaningful for the writer?) • Set the scene before beginning the story (giving us vivid description and sensory detail, including figurative language) • Name and describe the main characters and the main places (this is what makes the story “full” and clear)

  7. Autobiographical Markers • The writer reveals something about himself or herself, so think about what is revealed and how it is revealed • Multiple senses are used to set the scene and share details—not just sight, but sound, smell, touch, taste • Suspense is employed in order to keep the reader motivated • Think of it like a “movie in words”

  8. One of the most significant features is the autobiographical significance The writer will offer insight from a different, more distant perspective

  9. How to Read Autobiography • First, First Impressions • Next, Read for story • Finally, Read for significance and emotional connection

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