Under Construction - MHWA Retreat

Some people argue that memoirs are self-indulgent and exploitative.
Do you agree or disagree with those people? Why?
To say that memoirs (biographies/autobiographies) are all "self-indulgent & exploitive" is unfair. Because not ALL of them are. So, I disagree with people that say they are and assume they've never been moved by someone else's journey. A good memoir, for me, tells a story of strength and courage. Or of a significant event and how the author was impacted by it. Perhaps a story of overcoming insurmountable odds that might encourage others to persevere. There are many reasons to write a memoir that does not involve 'tooting one's own horn".


Would you ever consider writing a memoir based on your life?
Why or why not? What would you include or exclude?
Yes, I have considered it and actually, have two in the works now.
The first is about my younger life and what I had to overcome to be the coffee-drinking, sweet, smart-ass you see before you today.

The second is about my travels in the Middle East. Being the only one around with light hair and blue eyes tends to garnish attention. I had remarkable experiences and I think sharing positive stories about that region would possibly enlighten others to the fact that people are people. Wars are between governments, not their citizens.


Have you ever read any memoirs?
If so, which ones have been your favorites? Are there any memoirs on your to-read list?
I've read and can quickly recall the following:
The Color of Water by James McBride
The Diary of Anne Frank
This Does Not Leave This House by Julie Coons

I do not have any on my list waiting to be read...yet. Perhaps after seeing what others share, I'll be inspired to read more.