This is one of the possible [[assignments for memoir]] you can choose. (T1: Communication) > In [“The Jacket,”](https://drive.google.com/open?id=14-elyfUg9FepPSrJxT2cw_ecImPoGy61&authuser=mschulte%40waukesha.k12.wi.us&usp=drive_fs) Gary Soto describes an article of clothing that is (at first) repulsive to him—yet over time, he comes to accept it as a part of himself. In [“The Bike,”](https://drive.google.com/open?id=143hg7agq9FywlFD5o50r3fVIf8LvbZYh&authuser=mschulte%40waukesha.k12.wi.us&usp=drive_fs) he describes how one simple machine can lead him into exhilarating experiences but also into deep trouble. In “The Inner Tube,” he explains how a dusty and busted undesirable object totally changed his fortune over the course of an afternoon. > All of these stories highlight a bittersweet time in the author’s life. The experiences described are delightful, shameful, awkward, celebratory—sometimes all at once! > All of these memoirs were inspired by simple objects—possessions. The memories and emotions associated with each item are obviously significant for the author. Now it is your turn to play with this phenomenon. > First, choose a possession or object that is (or was) important to you. Possibilities might include an article of clothing, a piece of jewelry, a toy, an heirloom, a photograph, etc. No matter what you choose, your autobiographical story should be tied closely to this object. > Reflect on the qualities, memories, and associations attached to the item. Keep it in mind as you write. The item itself may appear only briefly in the story, giving way to the memories and associations that come with it, or it may maintain focus throughout. Regardless, make a strong beginning, middle, and end—in writing like this, the object itself usually isn’t the ultimate “point” of the story; it’s just the thing that ties all the parts of the story together. Sometimes the item turns into an extended metaphor (but maybe don’t try to force that to happen). > Aim for about two pages in length. > REMEMBER: There is a big difference between a MEMOIR and a personal [[essay]]. A [[memoir]] often gives a sense of story or narrative. Let it read like [[short fiction]]; think character, dialogue, plot, etc! Stay focused: this need not be the “story of your life,” but a brief and memorable story *from* your life. > Elements to think about: - SETTING - CHARACTER - DIALOGUE - DETAIL - PLOT > Here’s a short [video with tips on starting the possession autobiography](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1drGKfnRjb90ZSNp6u08UTbEn8nlUdvot/view)!