Under Construction - MHWA Retreat

Some people argue that memoirs are self-indulgent and exploitative. Do you agree or disagree with those people? Why?
I feel that not all memoirs are self-indulgent or exploitative. While there are those out there who want the attention and income from a best-selling memoir, many are just out there writing their life story or single experiences to try to help someone else or even just to document those moments in time. When it comes to people who are already well known, it seems more unclear as to their intentions. Some had to struggle and work hard to make it, and their memoirs tend to show this in a way to try to inspire others who find themselves in similar bad situations. But on the other side of this you have those whose sole purpose for the memoir is to toot their own horn.

Would you ever consider writing a memoir based on your life? Why or why not? What would you include or exclude?
I might try to write a memoir someday. Blogs and journals are hard enough for me though because it is very difficult for me share my thoughts and feelings in any format other than poetry. Besides, I wouldn't know where to begin. If I did, I'm not sure if I'd exclude some of the more graphic times or keep them there. Would I just write about the struggles I've had with my physical and mental illnesses or would I include those things that happened in my youth that scarred me and those that helped me through it? So many uncertainties.

Have you ever read any memoirs? If so, which ones have been your favorites? Are there any memoirs on your to-read list?
I have only read a few memoirs. Of course, there was "The Diary of Anne Frank" - they make kids read that in school. I also read a memoir about 25 years ago called "Letters to the Happy Hooker" by Xaviera Hollander. This is graphic, as the name suggests, and was suggested to help me find ways of keeping my first marriage alive in the bedroom.
I have also read a memoir written by a distant relative, "All Over But The Shoutin" by Rick Bragg. This book was amazing and gave some insight on what it was like growing up literally dirt poor with an alcoholic father and a strong mother. This is by far one of my favorites, as he doesn't elevate himself, it is like a tribute to his mom and everything she had to endure for her children.
My to-read list right now, unfortunately isn't memoirs or anything most people would refer to as fun. They are books full of scientific jargon and fact. Perhaps when I am able to read for enjoyment again I will take some of your suggestions into consideration.