A memoir is defined as a book detailing or describing the experiences of the writer. In other words, a memoir is an autobiography. A memoir focuses on the life of the author or some aspects of the life of the author. So, why should one write a memoir?
A Memoir Could Be a Memorabilia.
Memorabilia is a physical thing that reminds you of an event or a place. It could also remind you of someone. When people pass away, their loved ones start to forget them gradually, even if they try so hard not to. It is just human nature.
However, whether you are dead or alive, a memoir could remind you, your family, and friends of times that you shared, pains shared, victories won, and good old memories. A memoir could also reveal personal struggles or experiences that you went through in private.
Basically, a memoir tells both those who know you and those who don’t who you really are. It is like exposing your soul.
It Could Clear your Name.
Sometimes, we experience conflict that could go on and on and eventually remain unresolved. Sometimes, such conflicts get resolved outwardly just for peace to reign, even though you might still have unresolved concerns within yourself.
At such times, even though you let the matter go, you know deep within that you were not fairly treated, and you did not truly air your views. Having let time pass, it would seem confrontational or antagonistic to bring up the matter again.
People tell their side of the story in memoirs. In a memoir, you can air it all without the shushing remarks all around you. You can truly have your say and get it off your chest. In memoirs, people speak their truth.
People clear their names through their memoirs. It is not about other people and if they want to know your views. What matters is that the author finally gets an outlet to say his or her piece and gets it off his or her chest.
It Could Teach the Next Generation.
The best way to learn is from the mistakes of others. That saves you the trouble and pain of experiencing the same mistakes, right? Well, a memoir is made up of true stories and experiences of the author. Memoirs are usually honest, even if they do not divulge too much information.
A good memoir tells the readers what the author and others said, feelings that were felt, actions taken by the author, and the rewards or consequences of such actions.
This, therefore, means that a lot can be taught and learnt through a memoir. As a writer, you can teach the present and coming generations about your life choices and how they turned out. You can express your gratitude for the steps taken.
You can also tell your readers about your regrets, and that could serve as a note of warning for them to avoid similar mistakes. The best teachers are indeed the ones who have walked on the path before us and warned us of what lies ahead. No matter what kind of life you have lived, you can teach with your memoir.
It Could Become a Historical Reference.
History is being made every minute. Studying history is important. However, some historical events might be more impactful and more far-reaching than others. For societal figures, their history might be impactful on a national or global scale. While regular folks’ history might just be of significance only in their families.
Either way, history is important. Everyone has a story to tell, no matter how high-ranking or low-ranking that person may be in society. Besides, many a lesson has been learnt from seemingly common or ordinary folks, from time immemorial. Therefore, it is important to write down your history.
It Could Inspire and Encourage.
Have you ever been in a dark place where you felt so alone? Have you ever wondered if anyone has ever felt the pain you feel? Have you ever said to yourself that nobody in the world knows what you are going through?
One way to know for sure is to have someone tell you about their own experiences. Now, flip the situation. Imagine coming out of such a painful situation and writing a book on your experiences, telling anyone in similar situations that they are not alone.
Imagine how much relief such a book will bring to someone who is in the same situation you were in, once upon a time. It sure will make a world of good and bring some hope and succour, don’t you agree?
So, a memoir could be a light in a dark tunnel. Your memoir might just be the only thing that keeps someone going.
There are so many advantages of writing a memoir. It could be a retrospective reflection for you, while it may be a guide for another. Tell your story. Let people into your world. It just might do a world of good.
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