Kia Ora dear one,
How is your story coming along this week?
As you write, it’s important to occasionally step back from your story to ask yourself if it would make sense to people who don’t know you.
This can be hard to do! So I use the 100 years trick.
In 100 years, there’s a chance that even your family won’t know you or your history. You need to write to your reader as if they’re total strangers, as if they’re getting to know you for the very first time, because that will probably be true!
And this way, you’ll keep them engaged. Why? Because you won’t confuse them by assuming they know details about you. You’ll explain everything. They’ll understand and keep reading.
Speaking of leaping between different times, this week we have two more gorgeous ‘before and after’ photos, this time from Mary (who hardly looks any different!). Want to share yours? Send them my way!
Mary also sent in a snippet of her memoir:
February, 1953, was an extremely hot month when me and my twin sister were born. One of identical twins, so identical, that when we were baptised Mum had to remove an item of clothing to see who had the mark on the back.
We were told that when we were born Dad cycled round town telling friends of our arrival as he was very excited.
My sister and I nestled comfortably into an already accomodating family, with four siblings ranging from 12 to six years old, surrounded by love and attention.
My brother told me that things changed dramatically for the rest of the family when “the twins” came home from the hospital. Three brothers and one sister having to adapt to a new routine, from sleeping arrangements, meals and chores. An adaption that saw my oldest brother sleeping at my Nana’s for several months, to our three other siblings having their main meal at nana’s at midday every school day for a time. Nana was 82 at the time of our arrival, and must have been very busy, energetic and generous. And Nana was a part of my life for another 21 years.
Our siblings played a very big part in our young lives, making themselves available for games, building huts, taking us to concerts and giving us companionship.
One cold winter’s morning my oldest brother was playing the cornet for us. We were in the bedroom and I was jumping excitedly on the bed. After one big bounce I whacked my hand on the edge of the wardrobe. Crumpling with pain I struggled to hold back the tears.
Seeing this, my brother put the cornet down and came over to me. Without a word picked up my hand, cupped it to his lips and gently blew warm air on my pain, soothing the pain away. I still remember the warmth and comfort of that moment. I was nearly four years old.
I could feel the love in that moment when her brother blew on her hand. Could you? ❤️
Oh and for those who would like to learn more about memoir writing and spend a little time hanging out with me, this Friday, February 21st at 4pm, I’m offering a free, online one hour session called ‘Sexy first paragraphs and enticing chapter endings.’ This is all about keeping your reader engaged. To join me, at this very relaxed online gathering, simply click on this link at 4pm (or the orange button below). I’d love to see you there!
And the most important thing of all? Keep writing, because the world needs your story.
Charlotte x
PS if you’d love some personal guidance and support from me to write your memoir, think about joining in online course Write Your Memoir. My 20% off new year sale ends next Friday 28 February.
Charlotte Squire 