PREPARE YOURSELF TO BE A WRITER AT AGE 60 OR OLDER

By now I hope you have decided to at least try writing your memoir and that you have
maybe joined a writer’s group. For both, it is helpful to have a ‘writer’s toolbox.’

In an earlier blog, I made note of a few physical tools that are helpful for writing; a
laptop computer, sticky notes and a notebook. And I stated that a memoir can be
started by simply making a list of people, places or events that were important to you,
then rearranging or organizing. While not a bad way to start, I missed discussing the
equally important tools/ideas for how to prepare yourself to be a writer. Here are two:

1. Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott (1994, Anchor Books/Penguin Random House) Lamott has written multiple memoirs with a great deal of insight and compassion, and this book provides what I will call the first tool. It is full of ideas for not only how to write but how to nurture your life as a writer. It is time tested and used in writing classes all over the country.
   
2. Writing Without Teachers: Techniques for Mastering the Writing Process by Peter Elbow (Oxford University Again, this is an older book that has been used in writing classes across the country. Elbow argues that it is helpful to write freely to start – to not pay attention to editing or worrying about form, but to rather get your ideas down on paper and go back to them later to edit. This helps to start the process of writing. Elbow discusses ‘process’ and gives permission to find your own.

You will notice, as you look for books about writing, that there are many, many titles with all kinds of theories and objectives. Whichever one you decide upon, give yourself time to first think about what process best helps you to get started. Discuss process in your writer’s group and learn how each person may have a different approach. This awareness and the insights related become important additions for your writer’s toolbox.