Have you been trying to get some traction on your memoir—or simply find a way into your story? If so, these 10 memoir writing prompts might be just the ticket!
Because they are posed as questions, these 10 memoir writing prompts are designed to evoke a new memory, open a door that you may not even have known was there. Pick one that interests you and see where it takes you.
10 Memoir Writing Prompts: The Questions
Question 1) It seems (mostly) true that difficult passages end. What was the hardest period in your life? How did you make it through? What gave you hope to continue? Did you have help making it to the other side? And what did you find when you got there?
Question 2) We aren’t always in a position—emotionally or otherwise—to respond to even a wonderful opportunity. Have you ever been offered something you didn’t feel able to accept at the time? Has that haunted you? If so, how can you lay it to rest today?
Question 3) Are you a loner or are you a collaborator? Have you ever had to work against your preference? If you’re a loner, have you had to work in a team? If you’re a collaborator, have you had to complete something on your own? What did you learn about yourself from “working against your grain”?
Question 4) Have you ever successfully completed a phase of life or accomplished something hard won and noteworthy? How did you feel? Did you allow yourself to enjoy a sense of satisfaction? If not, why not? What door opened next?
Question 5) Can you recall a time when you were in a significant battle of the wills? Who won? Was it worth the fight?
Question 6) There are times when we need to persevere in the face of adversity or deep disappointment. Remember one of those. What did it take for you to keep going when the way forward seemed nearly impossible? Where did that strength come from?
Question 7) What has your relationship with authority been? Have authority figures helped or hindered you? Do you tend to trust authority? Challenge it? Avoid it? How has your relationship with authority affected the story of your memoir?
Question 8) When have you felt alone or abandoned? What helped you find your way when no one was coming to help? Who or what became your lantern?
Question 9) Do you remember a time when effort you put forth paid off beyond your expectations? When what you set out on the waves of fate returned to you like a ship full of silks and spices from a foreign land? Were you prepared for the abundance when it arrived? What surprised you most about receiving even more than you’d hoped for?
Question 10) What have you accomplished that took longer than felt reasonable? Was it worth it? How did the waiting change you?
And there they are: 10 memoir writing prompts, offered as questions in the spirit of Rainier Maria Rilke, who said, “Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves.”
Writing a memoir can be a deeply rewarding journey—but also a tricky one. This article offers guidance for shaping your story in a way that honors both your truth and your readers: “How to Write a Memoir.”
If you’re interested in my approach to writing, you might also take a look at my books:
Plotting Your Novel with the Plot Clock and Jamie Helps Mel Write a Novel.
Would you like some support as you write your memoir? I work with memoir writers at all stages of the process. Whether you’re just finding your way into your story or you have a complete draft, I can help.
Visit my contact page, and let’s connect.