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?
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?
posted by Red Head Matt at 7:13 PM
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