On the first day of a writing seminar I’m taking this semester, we were asked to introduce ourselves by sharing a six-word memoir (or at least a six-word statement about the self). The idea, popularized by Smith Magazine, makes a fun exercise to try again and again. How much can we express in six words? How compelling a story? How witty an idea? How poignant a reflection?
I’m trying to do more playing in my freewriting and journalling lately (I may share more playful posts as I come across other interesting exercises), so I spent some time outside class playing with this prompt:
- Started a Facebook religion called Wisco-theism.
- Memorized sonnets during varsity basketball games.
- Wisconsin woman went West, writing water.
- Explores new grocery stores for fun.
- Writer guilt: haven’t read that, either.
- Enchanted by geyser steam, sulfur smell.
- Writing my thesis. Sleep? What sleep?
- Self-conscious about those flat Midwestern vowels.
- Eventual writing grad seeks health insurance.
- Worry I watch too much Netflix.
- I drove to Lubbock once—deliberately.
- I love this round world, anyway.
- Won a date with Tad Hamilton.
What’s your six-word memoir?
Advertisements
Awesome Best Friend of Lauren Koshere.
Great idea!
Since I am twice + your age, may I use more than 6 words per comment?
I will try this exercise to see what I learn about me!
Aunt Suzanne, I hope you have fun! Let me know what you come up with.
That is a tough one. I had a list going but this may sum it up:
Girl interrupted; woman back on track.
Love your posts Lauren.
That catches my attention. I’d definitely want to read an essay or book that began with those words…they seem to imply an interesting story worth a few more than 6 words.