Personal memoir...um, I meant essay

Is there a difference between a personal essay and a memoir?

There is a difference. But the lines aren't so clear. I believe a memoir could be a personal essay. Would the reverse hold true? I'm not quite sure.

So what does a memoir cover? I believe the scope of the piece and how one handles the topic is what defines a memoir. In a personal essay, there's a sharp focus on a specific topic or theme. A memoir has a much broader scope. While it may touch on certain topics, generally multiple themes are written about.

A personal essay examines a particular event, theme or topic. From this singular event, stems the process. In a memoir, a range of events contributes to the overall tone of the piece.

Of course, these are just my definations. What is the true defination?

Escaping to the Lake

Four and a half hours away is peace. Away from all the hustle that city/suburban life brings, several lakes welcome those tired minds.

I have thought of many ideas to write about, yet I find myself coming back to Seneca Lake in different ways. Weather it is by coming up with an attraction within the Finger Lakes region or by finding some new idea, I am drawn to this region. It is only fitting that I write about this but how?

I've thought about journaling my essay. But I only have several enteries most of which were taken within two years. The best way, I believe, will be to accumlate my ideas.

I have known the lake house ever since I can remember. Naturally, it would make sense to describe this experience of growing up with the lake house. The way I saw things as a kid are completely different than how I view things now. What I often overlooked as a kid is now closer to my attention. Yet the magic I felt as a kid has long gone away.

Perhaps my topic should focus on change. I've spent a good chunk of my summer vacations up there. The water was so clean as a kid. Now, seaweed nearly overflows the banks. How should I deal with this, the magic and the subject?

Welcome...

Hello everyone. Stay tuned for more postings.