Author Shares Memoir Writing Advice After 50 Rejections

Mallary Tenore Tarpley, author of the recently published memoir "The Longest Year," shared three critical pieces of advice for aspiring writers embarking on their own memoir projects, drawing from her extensive experience that included approximately 50 rejections. These rejections spanned submissions to publishers, as well as applications for grants and fellowships, highlighting the competitive nature of the publishing and funding landscape for authors. Tarpley's insights, presented in a piece for Poynter, aim to guide individuals through the initial stages of conceptualizing and committing to a memoir.

The first crucial consideration Tarpley emphasizes is the "why" behind the memoir. She advises writers to deeply examine their motivations for telling this particular story. This involves understanding the core message or purpose the author hopes to convey and the intended impact on the reader. Without a clear and compelling reason, the narrative can lack direction and struggle to resonate with an audience or secure publication. This foundational step is essential for building a cohesive and meaningful narrative arc.

Secondly, Tarpley stresses the importance of identifying the "who" – the intended audience for the memoir. Recognizing who the story is for helps shape the tone, language, and the specific details that will be included or omitted. Understanding the reader's potential background, interests, and expectations can inform how the author frames their experiences and ensures the narrative is accessible and engaging. This audience-centric approach is vital for connecting with readers on an emotional and intellectual level.

Finally, Tarpley's third point focuses on the "what" – defining the specific story or theme that the memoir will explore. Instead of attempting to recount an entire life, she advocates for a more focused approach, zeroing in on a particular period, event, or relationship that holds significant meaning. This distillation process allows for a deeper exploration of the chosen subject matter, leading to a more impactful and memorable narrative. By concentrating on a specific "what," authors can avoid the pitfalls of an overly broad or unfocused memoir and instead deliver a powerful, resonant account. Tarpley's journey, marked by persistence through numerous rejections, underscores the value of these preparatory considerations for anyone aiming to share their personal story.