Writing from memory
» March 27th, 2008 | Categorized in Tips
For the last eleven years I have been writing off-and-on solely from memory for my poetry manuscripts, the first of which was published in 2000 under the title of The Truth Be Told. Although not a great success, it began this whole writing experience from reliving memories, both good and bad, through pen scribbling words.
Many non-writers find this rather difficult at times, especially from a poetic concept, to establish the sights and sounds that are no longer existent in colorful dialogue. It’s all in the details. And it’s a matter of concentrating with clarity.
Forcing a memory to resurface is not practically ideal considering that the images retained may be distorted due to immediate feelings or surroundings. Whether it is from anger, stress, or a state of denial, these do not shape the truest sense of the memories that are to be, per say, analyzed.
I find that reliving a memory for its sole purpose comes about through understanding and movement. What do I mean by that?
Understanding a memory can be done by anyone. We learn from our mistakes, move on with life and try again. Sometimes understanding a situation, either instant or from a distant past, can be difficult when life trips up and takes an awful spill. There’s nothing that says understanding a memory is easy – it’s a process of life.
However the movement of a memory is rather different. Much like how a camera captures an instance of time through light, a memory is the same in regards to capturing interaction with people and places. As the eyes close and the memory appears, all time stops for a brief moment to relive the past. But in this time within the past, the mind can replay movement with clarity and distinction.
Just as people say “I can remember it like it was yesterday,” that is the movement of a memory – always bound to you in ways that are true, shaping life for who you are.
Writing from these memories must come immediately afterwards, because silently the images will drift away into hiding for another time. Here are some tips for those who want to take this journey on their own.
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Tags: poetry, Tips, Writing
