memoir essay topics

63 Best Memoir Writing Prompts To Stoke Your Ideas

You’re writing a memoir. But you’re not sure what questions or life lessons you want to focus on.

Even if only family members and friends will read the finished book, you want to make it worth their time.

This isn’t just a whimsical collection of anecdotes from your life.

You want to convey something to your readers that will stay with them.

And maybe you want your memoir’s impact to serve as your legacy — a testament to how you made a small (or large) difference.

The collection of memoir questions in this post can help you create a legacy worth sharing.

So, if you don’t already have enough ideas for a memoir, read on.

A Strong Theme

Overcoming obstacles, emotional storytelling, satisfying ending, examples of good starting sentences for a memoir , 63 memoir writing prompts , what are the primary parts of a memoir.

Though similar to autobiographies, memoirs are less chronological and more impressionable – less historical and more relatable.

Resultantly, they’re structured differently.

With that in mind, let’s look at five elements that tie a memoir together, rendering it more enjoyable.

Biographies are histories that may not hew to a cohesive theme. But memoirs focus on inspiring and enlightening experiences and events.

As such, books in the genre promote a theme or idea that binds the highlighted happenings to an overarching reflection point or lesson.

Many people are super at sniffing out insincerity, and most folks prefer candidness.

So while exact dates and logistical facts may be off in a memoir, being raw and real with emotions, revelations, and relational impacts is vital. To put it colloquially: The best personal accounts let it all hang out.

People prefer inspiring stories. They want to read about people overcoming obstacles, standing as testaments to the tenacious nature of the human spirit. Why?

Because it engenders hope. If this person was able to achieve “x,” there’s a possibility I could, too. Furthermore, people find it comforting that they’re not the only ones who’ve faced seemingly insurmountable impediments.

Readers crave emotion. And for many of the stoic masses, books, plays, television shows, and films are their primary sources of sentimentality.

Historically, the best-performing memoirs are built on emotional frameworks that resonate with readers. The goal is to touch hearts, not just heads.

In a not-so-small way, memoirs are like romance books: Readers want a “happy” ending. So close strongly. Ensure the finale touches on the book’s central themes and emotional highlights.

End it with a smile and note of encouragement, leaving the audience satisfied and optimistic.

Use the following questions as memoir writing exercises . Choose those that immediately evoke memories that have stayed with you over the years.

Group them by theme — family, career, beliefs, etc. — and address at least one question a day.

For each question, write freely for around 300 to 400 words. You can always edit it later to tighten it up or add more content.

1. What is your earliest memory?

2. What have your parents told you about your birth that was unusual?

3. How well did you get along with your siblings, if you have any?

4. Which parent were you closest to growing up and why?

5. What parent or parental figure had the biggest influence on you growing up?

6. What is your happiest childhood memory?

7. What is your saddest or most painful childhood memory?

8. Did you have good parents? How did they show their love for you?

9. What words of theirs from your childhood do you remember most, and why?

10. What do you remember most about your parents’ relationship?

11. Were your parents together, or did they live apart? Did they get along?

12. How has your relationship with your parents affected your own love relationships?

13. Who or what did you want to be when you grew up?

14. What shows or movies influenced you most during your childhood?

15. What were your favorite books to read, and how did they influence you?

16. If you grew up in a religious household, how did you see “God”?

17. How did you think “God” saw you? Who influenced those beliefs?

18. Describe your spiritual journey from adolescence to the present?

19. Who was your first best friend? How did you become friends?

20. Who was your favorite teacher in elementary school, and why?

21. Did you fit in with any social group or clique in school? Describe your social life?

22. What were your biggest learning challenges in school (academic or social)?

23. Who was your first crush, and what drew you to them? How long did it last?

24. What was your favorite subject in school, and what did you love about it?

25. What do you wish you would have learned more about growing up?

26. What did you learn about yourself in high school? What was your biggest mistake?

27. What seemed normal to you growing up that now strikes you as messed up?

28. How old were you when you first moved away from home?

29. Who gave you your first kiss? And what do you remember most about it?

30. Who was your first love ? What do you remember most about them?

31. Was there ever a time in your life when you realized you weren’t straight?

32. Describe a memorable argument you had with one of your parents? How did it end?

33. Have you lost a parent? How did it happen, and how did their death affect you?

34. What was your first real job? What do you remember most about it?

35. How did you spend the money you earned with that job?

36. At what moment in your life did you feel most loved?

37. At what moment in your life did you feel most alone?

38. What do you remember most about your high school graduation? Did it matter?

39. What’s something you’ve done that you never thought you would do?

40. What has been the greatest challenge of your life up to this point?

41. What did you learn in college that has had a powerful influence on you?

42. How has your family’s financial situation growing up influenced you?

43. How has someone’s harsh criticism of you led you to an important realization?

44. Do you consider yourself a “good person”? Why or why not?

45. Who was the first person who considered you worth standing up for?

46. If you have children, whom did you trust with them when they were babies?

47. Did you have pets growing up? Did you feel close or attached to any of them?

Final Thoughts

These memoir topics should get ideas flooding into your mind. All you have to do, then, is let them out onto the page. The more you write, the easier it will be to choose the primary focus for your memoir. And the more fun you’ll have writing it.

That’s not to say it’ll be easy to create a powerful memoir. It won’t be. But the more clarity you have about its overall mission, the more easily the words will flow.

Enjoy these memoir writing exercises. And apply the same clarity of focus during the editing process. Your readers will thank you.

30+ Memoir Topic Ideas + Tips for Choosing One

Updated 06/13/2024

Published 06/26/2020

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Contributing writer

Discover the best memoir topic ideas, including ideas for college students, older adults, and others.

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

A memoir is a personal account of your life, an experience, or anything that shapes you into the person you are today. There are a lot of examples of some of the best memoirs out there, but have you ever considered writing your own?

There are no rules when it comes to writing your own memoir. You can choose any topic you’d like, and there are no restrictions on how you write your life story . This is a great writing exercise for students, older adults, and everyone in between.

By taking the time to write about an experience that matters to you, you also do a lot of self-reflection. This could shine a light on how you want to be remembered, your legacy, and any changes you’d like to make in your life.

There are so many important things you’ll recognize only once you begin writing. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, here are 30+ memoir topic ideas and tips for choosing the right one for you.

If you're interested in unique ways to continue the legacy of a loved one, you can consider a custom urn from a store like Foreverence or even have a memorial diamond made from ashes with a company like Eterneva .

Jump ahead to these sections:

Personal memoir topic ideas, tips for choosing the best memoir topic, tips for starting your memoir.

A personal memoir is something that’s meaningful for you. This could be an interesting event, a life-changing moment, or even just a bit of internal reflection. Again, there are no rules. Let these ideas be your guide.

Ideas for middle school and high school students

A memoir is an excellent writing exercise for students in middle school and high school. Though these students might not have a lot of life experience, they still have unique perspectives on the world. Capturing these ideas in writing is worth its weight in gold.

1. A major life event

We all experience major life events, even as children. What major life event defines your life, and how can you grow from it? It could be a transition from middle school to high school, a parent’s divorce, or even a vacation. These are the memories that define who we are.

2. Your favorite place

Where do you find the most comfort? Is it at home in your bedroom or outside somewhere special? Why does this space have so much meaning for you, and how do you spend your time here? Share an experience you’ve had here.

3. Your best day

Best days might not come around all that often, but they sure are memorable when they do. Share one of the best days you’ve ever had, who you were with, and what you did. What made this moment so special?

4. Favorite food

Food is one of the things that bind people together. What food speaks the most to you, and why does it have such an important place in your heart? What does food mean within your family?

5. Favorite teacher

Teachers impact the way we think, and their role transcends the classroom. Who was your most memorable teacher? What stood out about them, and how do you work hard to make them proud?

6. Favorite book

Everyone has a book they’ve read that stuck with them. Humans share who they are through stories. Like the memoir itself, this book plays a role in who you’ve become. What book is your favorite, and what does it mean to you?

7. Most prized possession

This topic is like show-and-tell in written form. What item do you hold in the highest esteem? Is it a beloved shirt or a prize from a sporting event? Where do you keep this item, what does it look like, and what place does it hold in your heart?

8. Your favorite class or subject

No matter your feelings about school, there are bound to be some classes or subjects that stood out to you. What inspired you about these lessons? What have you learned, and how will you use these teachings moving forward?

Who are your closest friends? When did you become friends, and what keeps you close? Exploring these relationships in a memoir is a wonderful tribute to those who matter the most.

10. Favorite holiday

Holidays have a lot of meaning around the world. Which holidays matter the most to you? What do these say about your family, culture, and personality? What is your favorite way to celebrate?

Ideas for college students

College students are at a defining moment in their lives. They have a lot of responsibility, but they’re not quite on their own in the “real world” just yet. This is the perfect transition point for some reflection through a memoir.

11. Major or focus

In college, most students define a major or area of study. What major did you choose, and what significance does this have for you? Where do you see yourself in a few years using this major?

12. First love or friendship

We’ll never forget our earliest relationships. Share a time when you fell in love or had a close friendship. What did this relationship mean to you? How did you feel in the moment, and how do you feel now?

13. Obituary

While this might sound odd, a common writing exercise is to write your own obituary. An obituary or death announcement is a way to share your legacy on the world. Though you hope to have many happy years ahead, what do you want to include in your obituary ?

What is your most memorable travel experience? From spring break with friends to family holidays in nearby cities, the places we experience often define us. What have you learned from your journeys both near and far?

15. Hometown

If you’re no longer in your hometown, reflect on what this means to you. Was your hometown somewhere to escape from or to? How has moving away for college affected your relationship with this place?

Describe an experience of loss. Whether you lost someone you love, a pet, or even just a favorite sweater, we all experience these feelings in our own ways. What does loss mean to you?

17. Grandparents

Talking to our grandparents is one of the best ways to bridge gaps between generations. Talk to your grandparents about their experience in college or at your age. How does this compare to your own experience?

18. First job

What was your first job like? When did you receive your first paycheck, and what did this experience mean to you? If you’ve never worked a “real” job, what do you imagine it will be like? Describe a volunteer, academic, or professional experience.

19. Future you

Write a memoir from the perspective of your future self. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? 20 years? How will this version of yourself look different? What will they have accomplished?

20. Failure

Though difficult to write about, it’s important to reflect on our weaknesses just as much as our strengths. Have you ever failed in your life? How did you move on from this, and what did you learn along the way?

Ideas for older adults

As someone with more life experience, there’s a lot of room to reflect as an older adult. Here are some ideas to get those creative juices flowing as you drift down memory lane.

How exactly do you want to be remembered by friends and family? What have you accomplished that you’re most proud of, and how will this affect your legacy?

What is your favorite hobby? Describe your experience learning this hobby and becoming a part of the culture. How does it affect your day-to-day life?

23. Life’s passion

While most people have a variety of passions, try to define a single, key passion that defines your life. Limiting it to one helps you focus on what matters most.

24. Historical event

Have you witnessed any historical events? Things like national disasters, wars, rights movements, and so on are all once-in-a-lifetime experiences. How did they affect you, and what is your perspective on these happenings?

25. Paradigm shift

Was there ever a moment where your point of view changed drastically? Did it stem from someone, something, or a single experience? Describe this moment.

26. Trip abroad

If you’ve traveled abroad, write about your experience in a new place and surrounded by an unfamiliar culture. What do you remember the most? What lessons did you take with you back home?

What is your relationship with change? Is it something you welcome with open arms or run from? Evaluate how your relationship with change has adapted over time.

28. Built a home

What does “home” mean to you? Is it the place you grew up or somewhere you built for yourself? Define what home means to you and how you’ve built your own home life.

While your career isn’t everything, it does say something about you and the life you lead. How has your career affected your life, and what doors has it opened or closed?

30. Life story

Finally, consider sharing your entire life story. If you’re not sure where to start, try the beginning. Each of us has a story to tell, no matter how big or small.

There are no one-size-fits-all questions for sparking your memoir topic. Follow these tips below to find the right fit for you.

Writing time and experience

Before you begin, consider how much time you have to dedicate to writing. While writing your life story might be a great goal, this should only be attempted if you have the time to follow through. Otherwise, choose something with shorter writing requirements like sharing an experience.

Brainstorm before you begin

If you’re not sure where to start, simply start brainstorming or journaling. Often you’ll find the answer in what you write here. What are you drawn to most naturally? Where do your thoughts focus the most? This is where your story lies.

Choose multiple topics

There are no rules that you only have to stick to one memoir topic. You could write a series of essays that discuss many of the topics above. There is no need to worry about them fitting together perfectly. Life isn’t a highlight’s reel. It’s raw and imperfect, and that’s okay.

Sometimes, the hardest part about starting a memoir is just that: getting started. While you need to have a solid overarching story, you also need to make a strong impression on readers early on. Like all forms of writing and craftsmanship, this process can be intimidating.

The good news is it’s okay to be messy, to make mistakes, and to figure it out as you go. For inspiration, follow these tips for starting your memoir.

Start with action

While it’s tempting to start your memoir off with backstory or context, this doesn’t necessarily draw readers into the story. Instead, begin in the middle of the action. There will always be time for context and further explanations later.

Engage your audience in the work from the first moment, grabbing the reader’s attention. Whether you begin at an important decision-making moment, on a trip abroad, or wrapped in a moment of passion, make every inch of the page count.

Treat your reader like a friend

Spilling your truth on the page is no easy feat. Because a memoir is your own story, it’s normal to feel anxiety about letting these feelings out from deep inside. One helpful tip for starting your memoir is to treat the reader like a trusted friend.

This is someone you confide in regularly, and you know you can trust them. They won’t meet you with judgment or confusion. They’re just present in the moment, listening to what you have to share. When you place your trust in the reader, they feel that trust as well.

Borrow from fiction writers

While you don’t want to borrow elements of stories, borrow writing techniques from your favorite fiction writers. Who said nonfiction had to read like a textbook? The best memoirs all tell a story creatively, relying on traditional fiction techniques to paint the narrative.

Just like with fiction, create a structure for your story. This includes a strong opening, middle, climax, and resolution. Even a truthful memoir needs a clear course for readers to follow. Take inspiration from other memoirs, fictional stories, and the tales that inspire you. What can you learn from other authors?

Write for yourself

Most importantly, write for yourself. Writing your own memoir can be a healing process. When you write your own stories, even if they’re never shared, you let go of this weight inside ourselves.

While you shouldn’t look exclusively inward, don’t focus so much on the reader that you lose sight of yourself. Invite your reader into these real-life moments. Let them exist inside them for a little while, even if it’s only on borrowed time.

Above all, write the story you have to tell. Everyone has something inside of them that wants to be let out. Your memoir is an opportunity to share that truth with a blank page, even if this is something you don’t share with others.

Start Writing Your Memoir

There’s nothing holding you back from writing your memoir. As long as you’re willing to put the words to paper, you can get started today. You don’t need any formal training or writing experience to get started. Memoirs are written by people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

You don’t need to worry about your story being “good enough” or “exciting enough.” A true story is a worthy story, no matter how it’s told. Let these 30+ topics above be your guide. From there, the page is yours to explore.

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127 Best Memoir Writing Prompts You’ll Love

Memoir writing requires dedication and talent to describe critical points of your life. See our memoir writing prompts to inspire you to make your own.

So you finally decided to put your life on paper. Writing a memoir and sharing it with others is a great way to immortalize your achievements, failures, and lessons.

However, you might find it hard to decide which areas of your life to focus on. Because a memoir requires themed occurrences, you can’t make it a compilation of narratives from the moment you were born. As memoir coach Marion Roach Smith told us in a podcast interview , your memoir must be honest and also impart something valuable to readers.

How To Use These Memoir Writing Prompts

The process, memoir writing prompts, what are good topics for a memoir.

Memoir writing is personal. It involves sensitive information such as personal and family history. So, be careful to only pick highlights in your life that you are comfortable sharing. At the same time, these key events should be those you think your readers will find interesting.

Memoirs don’t need to be chronological, nor should they read like an autobiography. These non-fiction pieces don’t need to include everything in your life. Memoirs can center on one colossal event and are primarily created to share lessons that inspire and encourage. Use the prompts below to get an idea of what to include in your memoir.

We’ve written extensively about writing prompts before. Here, you can read through our list of prompts and choose those closest to your experiences for a memoir. Pick as many as you want. Then, evaluate which ones you find most relatable. Continue this process of elimination until you have a foundation of what you want to include in your memoir.

What’s the story behind your name?
Talk about your first love. It can be a person, a thing, or a feeling.
Identify your proudest moments. Give details on how you felt during those times.
What would you say to your older or younger self if you had the chance?
If you can delete a memory, what will it be? Why?
Recall a time when you’ve been in an accident.
What’s your earliest memory?
Talk about the worst day of your life.
Narrate an event you feel already happened, like a deja vu.
Describe your childhood room in detail.
Detail a situation when you feel betrayed. What did you do, and how did you handle it?
If you have traumas or illnesses, share how you got them and discuss your recovery story.
What were you afraid of when you were a child, and why? Are you still scared of it today?
Talk about an occasion when you were terrified to do something but still did it.
How did your first date go? What’s your ideal first date?
List three ways people always describe you. Why do you think they describe you as such?
Identify your worst insecurity and why you got it. What are the steps you’re taking to overcome it?
Write about winning something.
Talk about your first heartbreak. It can be about a past lover or a failed endeavor.
Who’s your favorite teacher? Why?
What’s your worst fear?
Describe the most beautiful art you’ve seen.
What are your quirks?
What are you most grateful for today? Why?
Have you ever had a spiritual or religious experience? Expound on it.
What are your most valuable possessions? Why?
List three of your worst phobias. Share your worst experience concerning these fears.
Talk about your hobbies and how you got them. If you have a hobby from childhood that you carried to your adult life, what are they?
Talk about the most memorable holiday you’ve had.
Share an experience where you feel the most embarrassed.
Recall a time when you met a terminally ill person. How did their life philosophy affect you?
What’s the worst mistake you’ve ever made? What did you do to mitigate or correct it?
Talk about any experience you have with the supernatural.
Talk about an unforgettable memory you had with your mom or dad.
Recount your experiences growing up with strict or devout parents.
Describe your worst physical pain and share the story behind it.
Describe your relationship with your siblings.
Recall a time when you had a meltdown. What were the events that led up to it?
Talk about the funniest incident you’ve witnessed.
Talk about a time when you were dirt poor – no money, no friends, and no motivation.
List five of your all-time favorite songs. What memories do you connect to these songs?
Talk about your first job. How did it go, and what did you learn from it?
Narrate how your graduation went. Include what you felt and who you celebrated it with you.
Describe the most beautiful wedding you’ve attended.
Talk about when your experiences with racism, sexism, and other types of discrimination.
Is there a period when you feel lost? Share what you felt and how you overcame it.
What’s the first school memory you can recall?
Talk about the time when you hated yourself the most.
Recount a time in your life that you consider a fresh start. Compare the person you were before and after this new beginning.
Talk about the happiest day of your life.
What’s the most shocking event you’ve experienced?
What part of schooling did you hate the most?
Talk about the origin of a lie you still present as truth today.
What is your dream job? Recount your experiences during the period when you strived to get that dream job.
Walk around your house and look for items that trigger your consciousness. Relay the memories connected to these items.
Recount the story of your birth. How did your parents or guardian describe it?
Think back to a time when you had to make an important decision. What did you pick, and how do you feel about it today?
Talk about your greatest regret.
Narrate an encounter where you were stereotyped based on your gender.
What skill are you most proud of, and how did you develop it?
Talk about your favorite childhood toy and share a prominent memory of it.
Is there a family secret you wish you didn’t know? What is it, and why?
If you’re a part of the LGBTQ+ community, share your journey to discovering and understanding your sexuality.
Look back to your past expectations of yourself. How different are they from your current goals?
If you have an experience with a grave disease, share your life before and after your diagnosis.
Recount your experiences and lessons as a first-time parent.
If you’re a war veteran, narrate your first-hand experiences during your service.
Speak about the meaningful experiences you’ve had in your job or career.
Talk about a time when you had to break the law to survive.
Recall a time when you were pushed to be the leader of a group or a project. How did it go?
Pick the largest scar on your body and share how you got it.
Talk about something you’ve gone through that you pretend never happened. Include how you finally faced and pulled through this tribulation.
If you have any tattoos, talk about their meaning/s.
Describe the moment you realized you’ve matured or grown up.
Describe what you expect your retirement to be like.
Talk about a book you deeply feel connected to.
Talk about your favorite photo of yourself and the story behind it.
Recount the day when you got your first car.
What did it feel like when you moved out of your family home?
Describe your childhood home and pick your favorite areas. Explain why.
Recall an incident when your feelings were hurt the most.
Talk about an experience that made you believe in extraterrestrial life.
What vegetable do you hate the most? Share a memory of when you realized you hate that food.
If you’ve had a poor relationship with food, share your struggles with eating, weight, and self-concept.
What do you do when you feel sad? How do you lift your mood?
Talk about how you met the best people you know today.
Do you have unique family traditions? What are they, and what do you feel about them?
Tell the story of how you met your current partner.
Talk about your different friend groups. What memories of them do you like the most?
Describe your parents’ dynamic. How did their relationship affect your perception of love and marriage?
Recount the most intense argument you’ve had with someone close to you. Include why the fight happened and how you solved it.
Identify your greatest personal challenge so far and elaborate on it.
Talk about a time when your family prepared for a death of a loved one.
Recount the period after losing a loved one. Talk about your grief, mourning, and how you coped with the death.
Talk about how you started and achieved success in your field. Add tips to help aspiring beginners of the craft.
If you’re from a broken marriage, share how the separation affected you growing up. Include your struggles with your identity, self-respect, etc.
Talk about a time when you were falsely accused of something.
Have you ever joined an organization? Share your most memorable experience with the group.
Share your experience with a natural calamity, such as an earthquake or a hurricane.
Talk about the first year of your marriage to your current partner. Include your realizations, compromises, and adjustments.
Discuss a relationship you’ve been in that made you a better person. For example, you can speak about a toxic or a healing relationship.
Talk about a rare habit one of your friends or relatives has that you find amusing.
Talk about a major change you had to go through in your life. How did you cope with it, and what did you learn?
Speak about a time when you were addicted to something.
Talk about a time you felt the closest to your mother or father.
Recount an incident that pushed you to cut ties with someone special to you.
Narrate the story of how a grandparent imparted a vital life lesson to you.
Talk about your celebrity idols and how they influenced your life.
Talk about your best friend and how the two of you became close.
Did you have a school bully? Recall the worst thing they did and how their actions impacted your school life.
Talk about a family feud. How did it start, and how did the dispute affect you?
Discuss a life-or-death situation you’ve been in. How dangerous was it, and how did you survive it?
Talk about your best traveling experience that changed your perception of life.
Talk about a time when you feel powerful or unstoppable.
Write about a bizarre encounter you’ve experienced.
Talk about your political beliefs and why you support these beliefs.
Write about a time when you felt a place is hunted. Share the details of your trip.
Try to describe your hometown in vivid detail. What’s one thing you remember the most about your hometown?
Write about a historical event that greatly affected your life. What is it, and how did it change your everyday living?
Pick one memory you strongly associate with each: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Think of a time when you had to choose between two good things. For example, love or career, then talk about your experience.
Recall the most memorable adventure you’ve had.
Talk about an instance when you saved someone.
Talk about your experience when you moved to another country.
Talk about the time when you met your childhood hero.
Recount what happened when you had your first child.
Think of your first major loss. Explain what it’s about

Childhood Memories : Remember when you climbed that giant oak tree in your backyard or had your first heartbreak in middle school? Your early years are a goldmine of raw, evocative memories. Delve deep, and you might be surprised at the rich tales you can tell. If it helps, read old journal entries .

Overcoming Adversities : Have you ever faced a daunting challenge? Perhaps you battled an illness or overcame financial hardship. These experiences shape who you are and resonate with readers who seek inspiration and hope in the face of their own struggles.

Travel Adventures : That backpacking trip across Europe, or the time you got lost in a bustling market in Bangkok? Travel stories transport readers to a different world, filled with sights, sounds, and cultural nuances.

Relationship Dynamics : Love, friendships, and even the intricacies of family dynamics can make for poignant memoir material. Dive into the beauty, the pain, and the lessons learned from the people who’ve come in and out of your life.

Professional Life : If you’ve built a unique career or made significant shifts in your profession, these experiences might intrigue those looking to understand the ins and outs of a particular field or those seeking motivation to change their own career paths, like a writing job .

Personal Transformations : Did you embark on a journey of self-discovery, perhaps through spirituality, weight loss, or even a simple hobby that grew into a passion? Sharing such personal evolutions can be deeply moving.

Historical or Cultural Insights : If you’ve lived through significant historical events or come from a rich cultural background, offer readers a window into that world. Paint them a picture of a time or place they might never personally experience.

Life in the Shadows : Maybe you’ve had experiences on the fringes of society or in lesser-known subcultures, for example triathlon training. Shedding light on these areas can be both enlightening and captivating.

Educational Pursuits : Remember when you returned to school or pursued an unconventional educational path? There’s always someone out there wondering if it’s too late or if they’re on the right path.

Mundane Magic : Sometimes, the simple, everyday moments hold the most beauty. The smell of your grandmother’s kitchen, the laughter shared over a family dinner, or the quiet moments alone with your thoughts. Celebrate the ordinary; it often holds extraordinary stories.

If you’re still stuck, get the best memoir-writing apps to assist you.

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Topics for Memoirs: 50+ Ideas and Prompts to Get You Started

The memoir is a popular type of nonfiction writing that's often associated with celebrities, business leaders, and politicians. However, you don't need to be any of the above to write a good memoir.

Most people develop, over the course of their life, interesting experiences, expertise, or hardships that could interest others. But how do you know you have a good idea for a memoir? Better yet, how can you come up with a good memoir idea ?

Well, read on to find out as we discuss topics for memoirs.

What sets memoirs apart from other nonfiction.
Tips for writing a compelling memoir.
Memoir writing prompts.

What is a Memoir?
Open With a Hook
Structure it Like a Novel
Read Many Memoirs
Inspirational Memoir Ideas
Confessional Memoir Ideas
Comedic Memoir Ideas
Nostalgia Memoir Ideas
Travel Memoir Ideas
Other Memoir Writing Prompts
Position Your Memoir for Success

Before we go any further, let's get on the same page. A memoir is an exploration of a certain topic or subject with which the author has experience. This sets the memoir apart from the autobiography , which is typically a look at the author's entire life (or at least the interesting parts). A memoir, on the other hand, only explores certain aspects of the author's life that have to do with the topic or theme at hand.

Memoirs also read like fiction books. There's a cast of characters, and the protagonist is almost always the author. They have a similar tone and style to fiction books, as well, which is one reason people read them. In fact, some memoirs have been known to skirt the line between truth and fiction ( A Million Little Pieces , anyone?).

That said, you should strive for truth in your memoir. But you'll also probably leave some stuff out by necessity. In other words, you don't need to tell all about the boring stuff.

How to Write a Good Memoir

Memoir writing doesn't have to be hard. In fact, some writers may find it easier than writing a story about fictional characters. After all, the memoir will be about your own life and experiences. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Grabbing the reader from the beginning is essential for any memoir (or novel, for that matter). There are a number of ways to do this, and the type of story you plan to write will often dictate how it’s done. You can start with humor, action, conflict, or strong emotions. Don’t be afraid to combine more than one of these factors.

But no matter how you start the book, you’ll want to ensure you write from the heart and stick to the truth as you remember it. If you write with emotion and keep it compelling, the reader will be happy to go on the journey with you for the rest of the memoir.

Thinking of the structure of your memoir as that of a novel is a great way to craft a compelling narrative. Try your best to have the reader identify with you early on, while also setting up the central conflict of the story.

Each scene should advance the story, add character development or depth, or support the overarching theme of your memoir. All the better if a scene does more than one of these things!

As is the case with writing any other type of book, you'll want to be very familiar with other people's memoirs. You can't expect to know what readers expect from a good memoir if you don't read them yourself. Luckily, there are a ton of different memoir subgenres you can dive into. Some are funny, some are heart-wrenching, and some are informative. Here are some suggestions for excellent memoirs to check out.

Augusten Burroughs has written several successful memoirs. The most notable of these is Running With Scissors , which was even made into a movie. But he has written other memoirs, including Dry and A Wolf at the Table .

David Sedaris is another well-known writer in the memoir genre. Unlike Burroughs, Sedaris typically releases books that comprise a collection of essays on a certain topic. The personal essays in his books are memoirs of a kind.

Alison Bechdel is a cartoonist who has written what is known as graphic memoirs. Similar to a graphic novel, her book Fun Home is a memoir in illustrated form.

Some other memoirs you may have heard of include:

Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt
Becoming by Michelle Obama
The Liars' Club by Mary Karr
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion
Educated by Tara Westover
A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway

For more practical advice, check out the essay How to Write a Memoir by famed nonfiction writer William Zinsser.

Memoir Writing Prompts

Now that we've covered some broad-strokes writing tips for memoirs, let's dive into some memoir ideas. I've split the following prompts into some overarching memoir categories, but this is not to say that you need to keep any given idea in that category. You can take any prompt that strikes your fancy and apply a different theme to it.

By definition, your memoir will be very personal. It will be uniquely yours, but if done well, it will also give other people entertainment, insight, and value. After all, a memoir is just a long personal essay. Keep this in mind as you read the following ideas.

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If you have stories that can touch and inspire, then this may be the theme for you. Overcoming challenges makes for great reading.

1. Think of the hardest thing you've ever had to do in your life. How did you overcome the challenge? Did you do it by yourself or with the help of friends, family members, a spouse, your kids, etc.?

2. Have you ever had a profound religious or spiritual experience? If so, what prompted it?

3. Have you ever had to deal with a life-or-death situation? Did you keep your cool when others were panicking? What did you learn and how did your life change after the situation was over and you had time to reflect?

4. If you were able to go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?

5. What is the single most important life experience you've had? Why?

6. Write about the one thing that makes you different from everyone else. How has this difference affected your life, and where would you be if you weren't different?

7. Love is something everyone can relate to. Describe meeting your partner or your trials and tribulations in the world of finding and losing love.

8. Have you lived through any specific historical event? If so, how did it change your life or affect your view of the world and the human race?

9. Have you devoted your life to a specific field of expertise? With all your knowledge of your specific industry, start a personal narrative that explores how your expertise has influenced your life.

10. Recount the greatest adventure of your entire life in detail. Why was it so great, and how did it change the course of your life?

Confessional memoirs intrigue readers because the authors share their dirty little secrets. However, most of the time, there's a light at the end of the tunnel.

11. If you've ever dealt with addiction of any kind, a personal memoir could help other people who are dealing with something similar.

12. Most industries have a dark underside that doesn't often make the news. If you've been in a position to see this underside, it could make for a good memoir.

13. If you've done something interesting — like working with the homeless or at-risk teens — then your experiences could make for a good confessional memoir. Of course, you'd need to get permission to write about specific people first.

14. People who have lived a life of crime are in a unique position to write a compelling memoir. True crime is a popular concept across all media, and a true crime memoir could certainly do well. (Of course, I'm not suggesting you commit any crimes just so you can write about them.)

15. Is there something you've had to deal with, such as a mental or physical illness? Writing about it could be a way to help others with their own struggles.

16. Traumatic encounters can also make for impactful memoirs. Of course, writing about any kind of trauma can be difficult, but if you feel up to it, you may consider this kind of memoir.

17. Growing up is hard. If you had a particularly tough or unique time while shedding your childhood and donning adulthood, it could be of interest to future generations.

18. People are often interested in those who have different experiences from them. Whether you're an African American growing up in the United States or a disabled person navigating through life, try to pinpoint what makes you unique and discuss how it has impacted your life.

19. Confessional memoirs don't need to be as dramatic as crime or trauma. They can be as simple as mistakes you've learned from. Consider writing about a time when you made a mistake or did something that you are not proud of. Reflect on what led up to the event, how it affected those around you, and how you learned from it.

20. Like mistakes, secrets and your reasons for keeping them can also make for a good memoir topic. Write about a secret that you have kept for a long time. Consider the reasons why you felt the need to keep it hidden. How has it affected your life, and what have you learned from the experience of keeping it hidden?

While confessional memoirs are often serious reads in which the author bares their soul, comedic memoirs often deal with similar issues but with a very different tone. Readers seek these out to laugh and revel in the lives of others.

21. Were you a class clown in middle school, high school, or college? Did you get up to silly hijinks that landed you in the principal's office? If so, a humorous tell-all could be the creative writing project of your dreams.

22. Everyone's family is pretty strange. But some are certainly stranger than others. If you can look back on your formative years and laugh, you might just have the right attitude for a comedic memoir.

23. Some of the best memoirs are about family members. Maybe you had a brother or a sister who was zany or simply uniquely funny in their own quiet way. Writing a memoir about how your close family member kept the dark times light and the light times infused with laughter is a fun undertaking.

24. Sometimes it takes a while to “grow up” and start adulting. And there are certainly potholes along the way. If you have some cringe-worthy stories from living, loving, and learning, then your embarrassment could mean hours of entertainment for your readers.

25. Trying and failing at something can provide some of the best life lessons of all. Maybe you went to LA to become an actor, or you tried your hand at sports with hilarious results. By making light of your failures, you can help people not take their own so seriously.

26. Kids say the darndest things. No, I'm not talking about the show, but it's a good example of the kind of memoir you could write if you have raised or been around kids in any capacity. Not only are they funny, but they can teach us how to retain some magic in our own lives.

27. Humor is certainly a coping mechanism. And while there's a fine line between poking fun and making fun, there's some room in the comedic memoir genre for discussing things like your relationship to food, entertainment, and even exercise. These are the things of life, and with a little creative writing, they can make for fun reading.

28. Do you work in an industry dominated by the opposite sex? Or in an elite industry where only a few “make it”? Exploring anecdotes from your unique point of view can make for awkward, embarrassing, and funny writing.

29. Everyone has experienced some hard times in their life, but not everyone can see those things in a positive light. Using humor, write about the hardest moments you've lived through, giving them a comedic twist from your perspective today.

30. Was there ever a time in your life when a kind word or a silly joke brought you out of a dark place? Write about the power of kindness and laughter in your life.

Nostalgia memoirs are attractive to readers because they often remind them of their own childhood or experiences. Other readers may pick them up to see what the world was like in a certain time and place.

31. Growing up in small-town America — with white picket fences and a mailman who stops to chat — is a rarity these days. If you had this kind of upbringing, your experiences could transport readers back in time for an entertaining and inspiring journey.

32. We relate to the world through stories. And the ones we enjoyed as children often hold a special place in our hearts. If you can relate movies, shows, or books you enjoyed growing up to the person you've become today, it could make for a great memoir.

33. Music is the soundtrack to our lives. And a memoir that ties popular and classic songs to important events in your life has the potential to be a bestseller!

34. Did you attend Woodstock? Were you there for the Million Man March? Events like these — even those as recent as 1995 — can make for great memoirs. Life was different then, and much has changed. But our love for a good story hasn't.

35. Write about a significant event or period of your life, and reflect on how your perspective and feelings about it have changed over time. What do you miss most about that time, and what do you appreciate about your current stage of life?

People like traveling almost as much as they like stories. And these kinds of memoirs combine both. It's a way for readers to experience other parts of the world vicariously through the author's eyes.

36. A year-long trek across Europe. Riding a bike across America in a year. Living in hostels for a year. If you've ever done anything like this, get to writing!

37. Have you ever been injured or stranded in a foreign country? If so, you could write a thrilling memoir that details your experiences, the people you met, and how you managed to get back home.

38. Snow storms, flash floods, or broken limbs. A lot can go wrong out in the wilderness. If you've ever had a close call or a harrowing experience like this, a piece of narrative writing detailing it could be in order.

39. You can learn a lot about the world and about people by traveling. Experiences, both good and bad, can be interesting to the average memoir reader. And any life lessons you've learned along the way will certainly add depth to your memoir.

40. If you've ever been to Antarctica or the Sahara, Everest or Kilimanjaro, your experiences could make for great reading!

Many published memoirs are a collection of essays that are all related by theme. So these are the nonfiction equivalent of short story collections. Don't feel like you need to write one long story for your memoir. You can write several stories on different topics and then publish them as a collection. The following writing prompts can help you do just that.

41. Write about an epic journey you took.

42. Write about the time you realized what was really important in life.

43. Explore the topic of love — both platonic and romantic — and how it has influenced your life.

44. What is the one life lesson you wish you had learned earlier? Why?

45. Write about the person who has had the greatest impact on your life.

46. Explore discipline and how your life would be without it.

47. Talk about big changes in life — from childhood to adulthood or middle age to old age — and impart lessons to those who will be going through the same thing.

48. If you've ever been through a divorce, explore its impact on your life.

49. Talk about your hobby and how it has had a positive (or negative) effect on your life.

50. Explore ways you've tried to help others during your life.

When you have your memoir written and ready to publish, you’ll need to think about positioning it for success on the biggest online bookseller out there: Amazon. And the easiest way to do this is with Publisher Rocket .

You can think of the information you get from Publisher Rocket as the foundation for your writing career . You get insights directly from Amazon on:

Keywords – Metadata to position your memoir on Amazon.
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I hope these memoir writing prompts help get your creativity flowing. Don’t forget to check out Publisher Rocket here to use data to sell your finished book!

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Home — Essay Types — Memoir Essay

Memoir Essay Examples

Selecting the right topic is the cornerstone of a compelling memoir essay. It's the initial step in crafting a narrative that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impression. The chosen topic serves as the foundation upon which your entire memoir is built, setting the tone and direction for your storytelling journey. To better illustrate this point, let's examine some memoir essay examples in our base of essays.

When you carefully consider your memoir essay topics, you're essentially inviting readers into your world, allowing them to connect with your personal experiences, emotions, and insights. The more relatable the topic, the deeper the connection you can establish with your audience. After all, the power of memoir lies in its ability to evoke empathy and understanding.

To gain a better understanding of this concept, we can turn to some well-known memoirs, such as "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls and "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert, as memoir essay examples. "The Glass Castle" revolves around her unconventional upbringing and the struggles of her impoverished family, illustrating how the right topic can engage readers and make a memoir not just a personal narrative but a shared human experience.

Finding Inspiration for Memoir Essay Topics

So, where can you find inspiration for your memoir essay topics? The answer lies in your own life experiences, and there are countless facets to explore.

I. Start by reflecting on significant life events, such as your childhood memories. Think about the moments that shaped you, the adventures that left a lasting impression, and the challenges that forced you to grow. These events often hold the key to compelling memoir essay ideas, as they offer glimpses into your personal journey.

A Life-Altering Event and Its Profound Impact
Exploring the Impact of Milestones in Life
Personal Crisis Leading to Transformation
Influence of Key Moments on Life's Path
Lessons from Milestones: Successes and Failures

II. Additionally, consider your milestones and achievements. Successes and accomplishments, both big and small, can be fertile ground for memoirs. Whether it's graduating from college, starting a business, or completing a marathon, these moments represent your growth and perseverance.

Reflecting on the Marathon: Perseverance and Transformation
Transitioning from College to the Real World
Entrepreneurial Ventures: Navigating Challenges in Business
Shaping Character Through Personal Achievement
Personal Growth Through Accomplishments

Personal challenges and growth experiences also make for engaging topics. Everyone faces adversity at some point in their lives, and sharing how you navigated through these trials can inspire and connect with readers who have undergone similar struggles.

Of course, here are the essay topic examples marked up as a list:

My Journey Through Personal Challenges and Triumph
My Most Memorable Experiences in Life
Navigating Personal Struggles for Personal Growth
Triumphing Over Life's Obstacles: Stories of Resilience
Lessons from Adversity: Building Empathy and Connection Through Shared Struggles

Lastly, your career and professional experiences are a goldmine of stories. Share your successes, the challenges you've faced, and the valuable lessons you've learned along the way. Your career journey can offer valuable insights and inspiration to others pursuing their own professional paths.

Lessons Learned from My Professional Journey
How Past Experiences Influence Our Present
Overcoming Challenges and Thriving in My Career
Shaping Growth Through Career Path and Mentorship
Inspiring Others with Insights from My Professional Odyssey

By delving into these various aspects of your life, you can uncover memoir topics that are not only deeply personal but also universally relatable, creating a narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level.

A memoir essay, with its vulnerability, introspection, and focus on key life lessons, differs from a standard personal essay or autobiography. Unlike chronological autobiographies, memoir essays thoughtfully reflect on specific meaningful experiences. By candidly revisiting impactful moments, memoir essayists gain self-awareness, find meaning in hardship, preserve family histories, and share life-changing epiphanies.

Great memoir essays , illustrated by memoir essay examples , balance vivid scenic recreation, raw emotional insights, and universal truths. Evocative sensory details transport readers to pivotal moments, while introspective narration reveals the inner turmoil, growth, and realizations that recollection brings. The most compelling memoirs extract wisdom from lived experience, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys.

Memoir Essay’s Central Theme

Identifying your memoir essay’s central theme or message provides focus for both writing and reflection. Set aside time for deep thought about the big life moments you could explore within your memoir essay and what universal insights they hold.

Common memoir themes include overcoming adversity, grief and loss, achievement, parenthood, sexual identity, family dynamics, disillusionment, recovery from trauma or addiction, spiritual awakening, and more. For example, a parent’s memoir may center on personal growth through raising a special needs child. A memoir of grief could find meaning in love and legacy after loss.

Once you land on a specific theme, use it as a touchstone while shaping your memoir’s scenes, tone, and takeaways. Let it guide your writing toward impactful self-revelation.

Memoir Essay’s Structure

An intentional structure connects your memoir’s scenes into a cohesive narrative arc. Chronological organization works well for linear stories, while a braided narrative with interwoven timelines suits winding journeys.

Some memoirs, as in memoir essay examples for college students, utilize frame narratives that “bookend” the story, like Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette’s childhood recollections in My Mother’s House. Others divide chapters into thematic segments, like cancer survivor Kathy Kamen’s shifting outlooks in The Medicine Wheel.

Play with different structures until you find one that mirrors your narrative’s emotional cadence. Outline essential scenes like epiphanies, darkest moments, turning points, and resolutions to build your blueprint. A strong structure elevates your memoir’s impact.

Memoir Essay’s Voice and Tone

An authentic narrative voice and complementary tone shape how readers connect with your memoir. Your voice should fit the story, while your tone reflects the narrator’s perspective.

For example, a humorous, ironic tone could capture the absurdities of childhood. A somber, reflective tone may suit a memoir of loss. Word choice profoundly affects tone, so select descriptors deliberately based on the desired mood and emotions.

Beyond tone, stylistic devices like metaphor and imagery convey voice. Is your narrator contemplative? Sarcastic? Lyrics? Fragmented sentences or analytical asides also contribute nuance. Remember your voice makes the memoir uniquely yours.

Bringing Scenes and Characters to Life

Transport readers right into your memoir’s most pivotal scenes using vivid sensory description. Share sights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes that set the scene and make it relatable. Zoom in on resonant images and telling details that reveal deeper meaning and character insight.

Dialogue and anecdotes also help dramatize events and portray relationships. Let important conversations and interactions unfold naturally to illuminate the interpersonal dynamics, motivations, and emotions at play. Specific, evocative details turn recalled moments into immersive scenes.

Polishing Memoir Essays

Refine your first draft by revisiting your memoir’s central theme and emotional impact. Strengthen the narrative arc and deepen insights through targeted revision:

Read sections aloud to polish language and flow.
Ask trusted readers for constructive feedback.
Develop motifs and metaphors that underscore themes.
Enhance scenes with more vivid sensory descriptions.
Adjust structure and pacing as needed.
Clarify the narrative perspective and voice.

Revision is key to crafting a memoir that resonates. It takes raw recollections and molds them into universally relatable experiences suffused with meaning.

Free Memoir Essay Examples

We hope these free memoir essay examples inspire you to embrace the power of storytelling and to celebrate the uniqueness of every life’s narrative. Explore the pages of these memoirs to witness the resilience of the human spirit, the complexities of relationships, and the transformative power of personal reflection. These examples of memoir essays are a testament to the richness of the human experience and the artistry of memoir writing.

College Memoir Essay Examples

These insightful essays provide a glimpse into the diverse and transformative experiences of college life. Explore these stories of growth, challenges, and self-discovery as students share their personal narratives, shedding light on the unique journey that is higher education. Whether you’re a student seeking inspiration or simply curious about the college experience, these essays offer valuable insights and perspectives.

How to Write a Memoir Essays

Tips in memoir essay infographics.

3 Most Important Tips for Writing Memoir Essay

Checklist for Writing a Memoir Essay

Before You Start

✓ Choose a Specific Topic: select a meaningful and impactful life experience to write about.

✓ Identify Your Message: determine the central theme or message you want to convey through your memoir essay.

✓ Gather Memories: brainstorm and collect memories, details, and emotions related to your chosen experience.

✓ Narrow Your Focus: decide on the specific aspect or moment within your experience that you’ll explore in-depth.

Structuring Your Memoir Essay

✓ Create a Three-Part Structure: plan for a clear beginning, middle, and end in your essay.

✓ Craft an Engaging Introduction: start with a compelling hook that introduces the topic and grabs the reader’s attention.

✓ Develop the Body: explore your chosen experience in detail, utilizing vivid descriptions, emotions, and reflections.

✓ Conclude Thoughtfully: wrap up your essay by tying together loose ends and leaving readers with something to ponder.

✓ Reflect and Connect: consider the broader implications of your memoir, connecting your personal experience to universal truths or lessons.

Writing Your Memoir Essay

✓ Write Clearly and Concisely: use clear and concise language to convey your story and message effectively.

✓ Use Sensory Details: incorporate sensory details to bring your experiences to life for the reader.

✓ Be Honest and Authentic: share both strengths and vulnerabilities to make your memoir more relatable and authentic.

✓ Embrace Vulnerability: don’t shy away from sharing your emotions and vulnerabilities, as they add depth to your narrative.

✓ Revise and Edit: carefully revise and edit your work for clarity, coherence, and overall polish.

Additional Resources

✓ Refer to Memoir Examples for College Students: seek inspiration and guidance from memoir examples tailored to college students’ experiences.

✓ Explore how to start a memoir essay examples: study various ways to begin your memoir essay effectively, drawing from examples.

Using this checklist can help you stay organized and focused while writing your memoir essay, ensuring that you craft a compelling and meaningful narrative.

While delving into the intricacies of writing a memoir essay, it’s essential to embrace the complexities of your narrative, weaving together the threads of your experiences with insight and reflection. However, expanding your understanding of different essay formats can further refine your writing craft. Specifically, by crafting a problem-solution essay, you can develop a keen eye for identifying and articulating challenges within your stories, while also presenting thoughtful, engaging resolutions. This skill not only enhances the depth and structure of your memoir but also equips you with a versatile approach to writing that can be applied across various genres. Engage with this dynamic essay format to enrich your storytelling toolkit and bring a new level of sophistication to your memoir.

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What is a memoir essay?

This type of writing is often mixed up with autobiography essays. However, it is not the same as it represents a first-person narrative that describes a certain part of a person's life. The topics and ideas are always chosen by the author. In terms of comparing a personal essay vs memoir, it is necessary to understand that memoir still keeps to a certain chronology even if describing a single day.

How to write memoir essays?

Even though it is not a fiction story, memoir essay writing still uses various metaphors or literary devices that increase an emotional effect. You can see our memoir essay examples that show how it is done in practice. The structure has a strong temporal effect and an overly emotional tone, which is acceptable for memoir writing. Remember to end your writing with an important argumentation that will make readers think.

How to start writing a memoir essay?

To begin writing a memoir essay, start by identifying a compelling personal story or theme from your life. Reflect on its significance and outline the key moments. Then, create an engaging opening that hooks readers, drawing them into your narrative. Finally, let your story unfold with honesty, reflection, and vivid detail.

How to write a memoir essay structure?

A memoir essay typically follows a chronological or thematic structure. Start with an engaging introduction, introduce the central theme or event, and provide vivid details. Progress through the narrative, building tension or insight. Conclude by reflecting on the significance of your story, offering lessons, or leaving readers with a thought-provoking idea.

How does a memoir essay differ from other types of writing?

Memoir essays differ by their introspective nature, centering on personal experiences and lessons learned. They often incorporate vivid descriptions and emotional depth to engage readers on a personal level.

What are some common themes explored in memoir essays?

Common memoir themes include overcoming adversity, family dynamics, personal growth, grief, identity, and transformative moments. These themes provide a framework for exploring life's complexities.

What is the ultimate goal of a memoir essay?

The primary goal of a memoir essay is to share a personal story while offering universal insights or lessons that resonate with readers. It aims to create a meaningful and reflective narrative.

How much personal detail should I include?

Be judiciously vulnerable. Share telling details that lend insight, but avoid oversharing or exposing others’ privacy. Strive for candid self-revelation in service of the larger theme.

How do I conclude in a meaningful way?

Offer closing reflections on your memoir’s central insights, tying together the theme and narrative arc. Look ahead to the future or revisit where the journey began. End on an uplifting or poignant note.

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🖋 50 Impactful Memoir Writing Prompts to Get You Writing TODAY

If you’re thinking about writing your memoir but facing a blank page, I have a few great memoir writing prompts that will get you writing TODAY . Let’s do this! ⚡️

Writer’s Block? Nah!

Creative writing prompts are useful tools for unlocking memories so you can get your life stories onto the page. I have a deep respect for the creative process, and I’m a fan of creative writing prompts because they work. They’re a diving board into your memories, helping to unlock past experiences you may have forgotten. If you struggle with writer’s block, memoir prompts are more like the well-meaning swim coach that gives you a purposeful nudge, right into the water. Once you’re in, you’re in! 🏊🏻‍♀️

Writing is an intuitive process, and this is especially true for memoir . It can be helpful to think about specific memories or moments in your life that were particularly meaningful to you. Other times, it can be helpful to focus on a specific theme or area of your life that you would like to explore in your writing. Don’t be surprised if you end up pivoting in a different direction, too. If you stay open, the story you are meant to write will reveal itself to you (this might sound silly, but it’s been true for me and all the books I’ve written ).

Creative writing prompts can be a warm-up to the actual writing, or the writing itself. You can decide the shape of your memoir once you know what you’re writing about and have generated enough material that can serve as the foundation of your memoir. You can smooth your prose and make everything cohere into a memoir everyone will want to read. 🤗

But right now? Get writing.

Using Creative Writing Prompts

Creative writing prompts and writing exercises that help you write your memoir by providing structure and ideas to get you started. They offer simple but thoughtful questions to help you excavate the stories that are wanting to be discovered. ⛏

Prompts can be as simple as asking you to describe a significant event in your life, or they can be open-ended, like asking you to write about a specific theme or feeling. Sometimes you’ll end up writing about something completely different than the memoir prompt, and that’s okay. Trust wherever it takes you.

The more writing you do, the more memories will get unlocked. Not only that, but a little bit of writing each day adds up to a lot of writing if you just keep going . And as an added bonus, you’ll be developing your writing skills with each prompt you write. 🏋🏻‍♀️

Memoirs are a great way to share your life story with the world. These prompts will help you get the most out of your writing and get your creative juices flowing.

Why Memoir Writing Matters

Memoir writing as a creative process that serves the writer and ultimately the reader. 🤓

For the writer, writing our personal narratives is a way to remember and process our own life experiences, to help us understand the significant events of our lives that helped shaped who we are. Writing these stories down can be a source of comfort and healing, providing a space to reflect on our past and make sense of our present. They offer a creative outlet for exploring our thoughts, feelings, and memories, and are a great way to connect with our past selves.

For the reader , memoirs can be a source of inspiration for others, offering a glimpse into someone else’s life and providing hope, motivation, and insight. I’ve always viewed memoir as proof that we’re not alone, that others have been through similar experiences and can relate to us. Great stories help us appreciate what we have in the present moment, and offer compassion for ourselves and others.

What are Some Good Memoir Topics to Write About?

Unless you already know what you want to write about in a memoir, and it can be difficult to know where to start. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Some good topics include your childhood, your family and friends, your education and career, your hobbies and interests, and any significant life events. These topics can also be used as creative writing prompts to help you get started on writing your memoir, even if you plan to focus on something different.

Most memoirs have a specific theme, which can help you frame your writing and your manuscript. Learn more about themes (vs topics) here , and download a printable list of themes that you can use while writing and revising your work.

Memoir Prompt Writing Tips

Before you begin, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Be honest and raw

Be honest with yourself and your writing. Don’t worry about putting on a show or looking perfect. Don’t start changing family members’ names because you’re worried they’ll get mad. Remember that no one is going to see your work at this stage unless you show it to them.

Experienced memoir writers know it takes many drafts to get to a polished manuscript, but you have to start at the beginning, and beginnings are usually pretty messy. Give yourself permission to write without any inhibitions — no censoring of your words or thoughts. Just get it down, and then decide what to do with it once you’re finished. If you really hate it or feel horribly embarrassed, you can always toss it out. But you probably won’t. 😉

Write by hand

When it comes to writing prompts, I’m a strong proponent of writing by hand. Before you panic, you’ll only be doing this for ten minutes (see below), and there’s a connection that’s made between the brain and the page when you write by hand. I do most of my writing on my computer — I’m a fast typist and a fast thinker, so I prefer to have my fingers on the keyboard … except when I’m responding to a prompt. Something important happens when we write by hand, and it gets missed when we’re on the computer or on our phones.

If you’re not convinced, try it for one week and see what happens.

Establish a daily writing practice

When you decide you’re going to write, a daily practice helps keep you on track. Have a writing process in place ensures that you get the writing done, and with each day that passes, you become a better writer.

Some memoir writers swear by Julia Cameron’s morning pages , which I love but don’t always have the time to do. My recommendation is to set the bar low — begin with writing ten minutes a day. Choose a prompt, set the timer, and keep your hand moving (thank you, Natalie Goldberg ). When the timer goes off, stop. You can spend another 10 minutes revising and reshaping the work, or you can put it aside to rest.

If you do this daily, you’ll have 365 individual vignettes by the end of the year (366 if it’s a leap year). Whether you choose to use them in your memoir is up to you, but these are excellent starting points and you’ll usually find some gems in there, which you can submit individually to literary magazines or string together into a collection of personal essays or narratives. If micro memoirs are your thing, I have some proposed writing schedules here that might help.

The most important thing is to write, and write daily. 📆

Tell a story and give us details

Every memoir tells a specific story the writers wants to share. Memoirs are not a recounting of every fact or statistic of your entire life like an autobiography or biography, but a glimpse into a particular moment.

I like to use the example of a photograph — sometimes what is outside the frame is just as important as what’s inside the frame. Use sensory details to bring us in the moment with you. What’s happening?

When you’re ready, and once you’ve selected the pieces you want to spend time on, you can revise your work. This will give you a chance to do a deeper dive into whatever it is that want to say, and shape the work for a reader. But again, you don’t have to worry about that now, just be assured that you can “fix” whatever you need to fix, later. 👩🏻‍🔧

Mem oir Writing Prompts & Ideas

Let’s get started! Use the following memoir prompts to get your creativity flowing. These open-ended prompts are very flexible so choose at random, switch them up, make them yours. Use them as a starting point, trust the process, and GO. 🏃🏻‍♀️

The Alphabet Autobiography (similar to the abecedarian poetic form). You’ll write one sentence of line for each letter of the alphabet, from A to Z. Start with the letter A, and think about something (or someone) in your life that begins with A. It doesn’t have to “important” — don’t overthink it. Go with whatever comes up first, and keep going until you reach the end of the alphabet.
Write about a family heirloom.
What were the cartoon characters of your childhood, and which one did you identify with?
Write about your first best friend.
Not everyone has owned a pet, but we all have animal companions in some form. Think stuffed animal, class pet, a totem animal. Write about the first one that comes to mind.
Write about a favorite teacher.
What’s the first thing you did this morning?
Have you ever had a near-death experience?
Write about your first love.
What was the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in high school?
What is the best memory you have of a place you traveled to?
When was the last time you saw a relative you don’t know very well? Tell us what you think about them. How are they related to you?
Tell us about your favorite article of clothing. Where did you get it, why do you love it, what does it say about you?
What was the first thing you ever bought yourself?
What is your favorite gift you’ve ever given (or received)?
Who do you love to spend time with? Why?
Think of a time you lied.
Think of a time when you stole something.
Think of a time when you laughed so hard, you cried.
Think of a time when you felt triumphant.
Think of a time when you were completely and utterly in love.
What was the worst day of your life?
What’s your favorite season? Why?
What’s your favorite holiday? Why?
When were you the happiest you’ve ever been?
When you were the saddest you’ve ever been?
What is one of your most vivid memories of your parents?
When was the last time you felt jealous?
Write about a random act of kindness someone did for you.
What is your favorite smell?
Write about your name. What does it mean? Do you have a nickname? Does it suit you?
What is something no one knows about you?
Tell us a recipe that you make by heart. How did you learn it? How often do you make it?
Did you have a comfort object growing up? What was it, and when did you need it?
Write about a recurring dream.
When you look in the mirror, what feature do you notice first? Write about that.
What was the first place you ever traveled to?
How has your worldview changed since you were a child?
What was your first car?
When was the last time you went swimming?
What’s a job you would love to do?
How many siblings do you have, and what are their names?
Tell us about your favorite kind of sandwich.
Write about your scars.
What’s your go-to cocktail?
How many times have you moved in your life?
Describe the house you grew up in.
How many tattoos and piercings do you have, and why did you get them?
Write about the last time you were in nature, and what happened.
Write about a camping trip.

More Great Resources

Experiment with micro memoirs and establish a simple writing practice to help you write regularly.
Read this post, 10 Tips on How to Write a Book About Your Life , for an overview of the writing process.
Read this post, Top 10 Must-Read Books on How to Write a Memoir , which features books by some great writers of the genre.
Want to know when I add more prompts? Join my newsletter ! 💌

How to write a story
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How to write a memoir
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For teachers

59 Memoir Ideas

On this page you’ll find memoir ideas and topics, along with links to even more memoir writing prompts.

56 Memoir Topics

Which of these have been important in your life?

1) being a parent

2) your parent

3) your grandparent

4) a sister or brother

5) a sport or game that's been important to you

6) gardening

7) a trip you took

8) a particular job

9) your career

10) something you collect

11) an unusual talent

12) dieting or fitness

13) your cultural heritage

14) a romance

15) marriage

16) divorce

17) farming

18) your relationship to nature

19) a school you went to

20) your college or university

21) summer camp

22) your house

24) an illness

25) a disability

26) an accident

27) an addiction

28) the death of someone close to you

29) childhood

30) adolescence

31) becoming an adult

32) middle age

33) old age

34) a book or movie that changed your life

35) a work of art that changed your life

36) a teacher or mentor

37) an important friendship

38) a spiritual or religious experience

39) a change in your economic situation

40) a decision to change some aspect of your life

41) a place where you lived

42) a place that was special to you

43) a move to a new place

44) another major life change

45) the effect of war on your life

46) another historical event that impacted your life

49) a dangerous situation you survived

50) something you did to help others

51) military service

52) something you accomplished

53) a topic you research as a hobby

54) discrimination you have faced

55) someone who was a great inspiration to you

56) a mission or quest

Learn how to write a great memoir with our online course.

3 Memoir Prompts

1) What's a song that brings back memories for you? Listen to the song (if you don't have a recording, you can probably find it on Youtube.com), and travel back in your mind to a time that it makes you remember. Spend a few minutes inside that memory, reliving it in as much detail as possible. Then write about that memory, trying to recreate it on the page. 2) Write about a conversation that had an impact on your life. Show the scene where the conversation happened, and try to reconstruct parts of the dialogue word-for-word on the page so that readers can "hear" it first-hand. 3) Look at a photograph of your family. What memories does it bring back? Focus on one of the memories, trying to recall sounds, smells, and other sensations, as well as what things looked like. Then write about it, recreating the scene for the reader. Click here for more 38 more memoir ideas.

Memoir Ideas - Next Steps

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Memoir Ideas

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66 Creative Memoir Ideas to Beat Writer’s Block

Few things beat a gripping memoir that pulls in the reader and tells a fascinating story.

However, it can be hard to come up with ideas for a memoir or to think about what to include.

This guide will walk you through some memoir ideas so you can beat past writer’s block and start to tell your stories.

What Are The Main Parts of A Memoir?

While a lot of memoirs are completely different, there are often common threads that bring them together.

Some things include:

Emotional vulnerability . We read a memoir to understand someone’s perspective and what they went through. If you’re closed off and not sharing your truth, people won’t want to read it.
A theme that goes through the book . There’s usually some kind of underlying theme that ties the whole memoir together .
Comedy mixed in with heavy content . This isn’t always the case, but if you can find ways to tie in funny stories along with your heavy stories, it can create a wonderful reading experience.

Memoir Ideas

Ready to get started on your memoir? Let’s go over some quick and easy ideas for you so you don’t forget a thing.

#1 – Tell a story about a trip you took that changed your life. Whether it was the people you met or the place you went, travel can bring so much to someone’s life.

#2 – What were some of the key romantic relationships in your life? Whether they lasted a long time or a short time, there are probably some that played an impact.

#3 – If you’ve been through a divorce, you can talk about that experience. Or maybe the divorce of someone close to you.

#4 – How did school play a role in your life?

#5 – Outside of school, what do you continue to learn about or pursue as a passion?

#6 – Did you ever have a pet that left a lasting memory? Can you use nostalgic writing to tell a moving or inspiring story?

#7 – How has the health, or the health of the people in your life, changed your life? Did anyone have a serious health issue you had to help with?

#8 – Death is a hard thing to go through. Talk about the passing of someone who heavily impacted your life.

#9 – Did you ever see a movie that changed your life? Or is one you’ll never forget?

#10 – Are you a parent? How has it changed you as a person?

#11 – In relation to the above, you could also write about your own parents. What it was like to live with them, where you grew up, what they taught you?

#12 – What book had the biggest impact on your life overall?

#13 – When were you the most afraid in your life? What did you learn from that time?

#14 – Do you have any notable people in your family or bloodline? Where did your family originate from and how do you feel about your culture?

#15 – What is a family tradition you love? What is one you despise? What kind of traditions do you want to pass on?

#16 – Who do you wish you could forget you ever met in your life?

#17 – What is a day in your life you’d like to live over and over?

#18 – Do you have a hobby that has been a major theme in your life or brings you a new perspective?

#19 – Talk about religion and spirituality in your life. How has it shaped your life and worldview?

#20 – Was anyone in your family in the military?

#21 – Write about the most interesting person you’ve ever met? What makes them that way? Have they changed how you think about life?

#22 – Who inspired your life the most?

#23 – What is your strongest belief? What makes it so strong?

#24 – What was the hardest lesson for you to ever learn? What made it that way?

#25 – What is something that makes you emotional to talk about?

#26 – What have you learned about yourself?

#27 – How do you like to make the people around you feel?

#28 – What kind of people do you like to surround yourself with?

#29 – Write about your favorite season or your favorite memory from a season .

#30 – What would you want your kids to know most about who you are and your life?

#31 – What was the most memorable food in your life? Food plays such an interesting role in families and communities.

#32 – Did you have a childhood toy you’ll never forget?

#33 – What was the worst day of your life?

#34 – What do you wish the whole world understood?

#35 – What do you still hope to accomplish with your life?

#36 – How would you summarize your life into one word?

#37 – If you could only tell one story in your life, which one would it be?

#38 – Did you ever take drastic action to change your life? Maybe you got a health diagnosis or maybe you decided to finally pursue that passion project.

#39 – What was the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?

#40 – What are you the most proud of doing?

#41 – What place in the world do you love the most? Or had the biggest impact on you? Do you wish you lived somewhere else or could go back to a place?

#42 – What still makes you upset to think about?

#43 – What is your greatest weakness?

#44 – What is your greatest strength?

#45 – Write about your biggest success and your biggest failure.

#46 – What birthday celebration will you never forget?

#47 – What was the most dangerous situation you lived through and came out the other side?

#48 – What fictional character played the greatest role you have ever seen?

#49 – Who is your favorite family member, and why?

#50 – Talk about your siblings, if you have some.

#51 – What is the most memorable gift you’ve ever received?

#52 – Talk about a time you had to change your mind about something.

#53 – What bothers you the most?

#54 – Talk about your biggest faults and mistakes you’ve made in your life.

#55 – What teacher or mentor played a key role in your life?

#56 – Who did you lose touch with that you regret doing so?

#57 – Write about your happiest memory.

#58 – Were you into music growing up? Talk about a live music event you saw you remember most.

#59 – What was the most memorable thing you did for someone else? Did they know you did it?

#60 – Has a historical event shaken up your life? Maybe war altered your entire family plans or where they could live.

#61 – Did money play a huge part in your life, your stress, your family, and so on? Money can be a loaded topic, but it can play a much bigger part than people think.

#62 – What friends were in your life that you’ll never forget? Are they still in your life? Is there someone you wish still was?

#63 – Have you ever seen a piece of art that moved you?

#64 – Have you ever had an exciting experience in nature? Do you wish you had a greater connection to nature or are you happier out of nature?

#65 – Did you have an important or life altering job? Whether it was for the better or for the worse, talk about it and your experience. What did you learn?

#66 – Were you involved in sports growing up? How did it play an impact on your life?

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Memoir Assignment Essay Example
Review of a memoir Essay Example
How to write a memoir outline
Free Memoir Essay Examples. Best Topics, Titles
How to Write a Memoir: 13 Key Elements of a Memoir You Need Writing A
How to Teach Memoir Writing

COMMENTS

63 Best Memoir Writing Prompts To Stoke Your Ideas
These memoir topics should get ideas flooding into your mind. All you have to do, then, is let them out onto the page. The more you write, the easier it will be to choose the primary focus for your memoir. And the more fun you'll have writing it. That's not to say it'll be easy to create a powerful memoir. It won't be.
101 Memoir Ideas For Your Next Memoir Project
Memoir Ideas. 1. Memoir Ideas for Beginners: Tips and tricks to jumpstart your memoir writing journey. 2. Life Story: Pen down your entire life, capturing every twist and turn. 3. A Family Affair: Write a family history, exploring the threads that bind generations. 4. Time Capsule: Write about a time that changed your perception forever. 5.
30+ Memoir Topic Ideas + Tips for Choosing One
Personal Memoir Topic Ideas; Tips for Choosing the Best Memoir Topic; Tips for Starting Your Memoir; Personal Memoir Topic Ideas. A personal memoir is something that's meaningful for you. This could be an interesting event, a life-changing moment, or even just a bit of internal reflection. Again, there are no rules. Let these ideas be your guide.
127 Best Memoir Writing Prompts You'll Love
Memoir writing requires dedication and talent to describe critical points of your life. See our memoir writing prompts to inspire you to make your own. So you finally decided to put your life on paper. Writing a memoir and sharing it with others is a great way to immortalize your achievements, failures, and lessons.
Topics for Memoirs: 50+ Ideas and Prompts to Get You Started
Explore compelling ideas for your memoir with our handpicked list of topics: from overcoming adversity to life-changing experiences. Skip to content. Kindlepreneur. Book Marketing for Self-Publishing Authors ... Sedaris typically releases books that comprise a collection of essays on a certain topic. The personal essays in his books are memoirs ...
Free Memoir Essay Examples. Best Topics, Titles
Selecting the right topic is the cornerstone of a compelling memoir essay. It's the initial step in crafting a narrative that resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impression. The chosen topic serves as the foundation upon which your entire memoir is built, setting the tone and direction for your storytelling journey.
50 Impactful Memoir Writing Prompts to Get You ...
Some good topics include your childhood, your family and friends, your education and career, your hobbies and interests, and any significant life events. These topics can also be used as creative writing prompts to help you get started on writing your memoir, even if you plan to focus on something different.
59 Memoir Ideas
59 Memoir Ideas. On this page you'll find memoir ideas and topics, along with links to even more memoir writing prompts. 56 Memoir Topics. Which of these have been important in your life? 1) being a parent. 2) your parent. 3) your grandparent. 4) a sister or brother. 5) a sport or game that's been important to you. 6) gardening. 7) a trip you ...
66 Creative Memoir Ideas to Beat Writer's Block
Memoir Ideas. Ready to get started on your memoir? Let's go over some quick and easy ideas for you so you don't forget a thing. #1 - Tell a story about a trip you took that changed your life. Whether it was the people you met or the place you went, travel can bring so much to someone's life.
50+ Superb Memoir Ideas for Free » JournalBuddies.com
Famous Memoir Examples; Personal Essay Ideas; 66 Magical Writing About Childhood Memories Prompts; 34 Easy to Understand Past Tense Writing Prompts; Whether you're looking to start a memoir or simply do some personal narrative journaling, we hope these memoir ideas will help you begin! Nothing is off-limits when it comes to writing a memoir ...