Ready to tell your story?
The new year is often seen as a time for reflection, renewal, and setting new goals. It’s a natural time to reflect on past experiences and consider how they have shaped your life.
Here are a few reasons why the new year is a perfect time to start thinking about writing your memoir:
Reflection and introspection
The new year encourages introspection and reflection on the past year and one’s life as a whole. This introspective mindset can be a great catalyst for considering the stories and experiences you’d like to capture in a memoir.
Setting new goals
Many people use the new year as an opportunity to set new goals and aspirations. If you’ve ever wanted to write a memoir, the new year is a great time to commit to the goal and start outlining the steps needed to achieve it.
Capturing memories and experiences
Memories tend to be at the forefront of people’s minds during the holiday season and as one year ends and another begins. This can inspire a desire to capture and preserve those memories in the form of a memoir.
Creating a legacy
Writing a memoir allows you to share your stories, experiences, and wisdom with others, leaving a lasting legacy for your loved ones and future generations. The new year can be a powerful motivator to embark on this meaningful endeavor.
Personal growth and self-expression
The act of writing a memoir can be a deeply personal and cathartic experience. It provides an opportunity for self-expression, growth, and understanding, and the new year can be an ideal time to embark on this journey of self-discovery.
As a memoir teacher, I wholeheartedly encourage anyone considering the task of writing their memoir to recognize the value of seeking out a writing class or engaging with books on the subject. I have seen firsthand the transformative impact that formal instruction and literary guidance can have on aspiring memoirists, and I firmly believe that these resources are pivotal to the development of one’s skills as a writer.
For those eager to embark on the journey of memoir writing, enrolling in a dedicated writing class offers a structured and supportive environment in which to cultivate their storytelling abilities. Through interactive workshops, constructive feedback, and the guidance of experienced instructors, students can refine their narrative techniques, explore different approaches to storytelling, and gain a deeper understanding of the art of memoir writing. The camaraderie and exchange of ideas among classmates can also be an invaluable source of inspiration and encouragement throughout the writing process.
Also, immersing oneself in literature that delves into the craft of memoir writing is essential for aspiring authors. Books authored by established memoirists and renowned writing experts serve as reservoirs of knowledge, offering practical advice, insight into narrative structure, and a wealth of inspiration. By studying the works of accomplished writers, individuals can glean valuable lessons and techniques that will inform and elevate their own storytelling endeavors.
In essence, from the vantage point of a memoir teacher, I wholeheartedly advocate for the pursuit of formal education and literary exploration as essential steps in the journey of writing a memoir.
And I like to help with the process myself. I’ve written many memoirs with some notable folks, along with teaching literally hundreds of memoir workshops.
I have upcoming classes tailored to those seeking to embark on their memoir-writing journey. Whether you prefer the convenience of online instruction or the camaraderie of in-person learning, these classes are designed to provide aspiring memoirists with the guidance and tools they need to bring their stories to life. Through interactive sessions, personalized feedback, and a supportive community of fellow writers, I am committed to fostering an environment where individuals can cultivate their literary voices and hone their storytelling skills.
In addition to these classes, I am excited to announce the upcoming (August) release of my book, “Where One Hears the Rain.” This work is a culmination of my passion for helping writers find their literary voices and craft their stories with authenticity and depth. Within its pages, readers will find a wealth of insights, practical advice, and creative exercises aimed at empowering individuals to embark on their own memoir-writing odyssey. “Where One Hears the Rain” is a guide for those who seek to unearth the power of their personal narratives and translate them into captivating tales that resonate with others.
From the publisher:
Drawing on his journey as an author, collaborative writer, and decade-long tenure as a memoir writing workshop instructor, Chris Epting offers invaluable insights and practical advice to guide writers to their unique voice and shape their personal stories. This book delves into the essential aspects of memoir writing, from uncovering inspiration to developing compelling narratives to organizing and structuring the autobiographical narrative for maximum emotional impact.
What sets Where One Hears the Rain apart is Epting’s incorporation of lessons learned from his mentor, the legendary author John Cheever. Epting weaves Cheever’s teachings seamlessly into the fabric of the book, enriching readers’ understanding of the craft and exposing them to the wisdom passed down from one literary generation to another.
This book is a treasure trove of knowledge for aspiring memoirists, covering every aspect of the writing and publishing process, including the intricacies of the publishing industry. Epting’s exhaustive approach ensures that readers are equipped with the tools and know-how to navigate the path to publication successfully. Moreover, the inclusion of personal anecdotes from Epting’s own writing experiences adds depth and authenticity, making the book both engaging and instructional.
Where One Hears the Rain: Finding Your Voice and Crafting Your Story, from Inspiration to Publication is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to embark on the memoir writing journey. Chris Epting’s expertise, combined with his passion for storytelling, makes this book an invaluable companion that will inspire, educate, and empower writers as they strive to share their own unique narratives with the world.
You can pre-order the book by clicking here.
I am deeply committed to providing aspiring memoirists with the resources and support they need to embark on their writing journeys, and I am eager to share my knowledge and expertise through both my upcoming classes and the release of “Where One Hears the Rain.” It is my sincere hope that these offerings will serve as catalysts for you as you seek to discover your unique voice and bring your life story to the page with honesty and artistry.
Let me know how I can help! For online workshop session inquiries, you may write me at chris@chrisepting.com.
Chris
