Story and photo by Larry Vogel
“My life would make a great memoir.”
“I hear those words every day,” said Turner, a professional teacher, writer and writing coach in her address to the Friends of the Edmonds Library on Thursday, April 25. “But making it a reality requires more than a good story. It requires looking at it from what for many is a new perspective.
“Just as important as having a good story is getting in touch with the ‘why,'” she said. “Thinking about that and articulating it in your writing will make your experiences connect with others and turn a dull recounting of facts into a compelling narrative.”
Getting in touch with the “why” frequently involves thinking about and coming to grips with your motives. “It’s often a voyage of self-discovery,” Turner says.
In addition to her professional work, Turner volunteers as president of EPIC, a local non-profit group dedicated to supporting writers. She presides over the group’s weekly meetings every Monday morning at the Edmonds Library, which has become so popular that they are in danger of outgrowing their space. “It’s a place where local aspiring writers can get together, share experiences, and support each other,” she said.
You can learn more at www.JanetteTurner.com.
What a great presentation! I think you touched a lot of “creative buttons” yesterday with your discussion of personal story and memoir, Janette. It’s no wonder your writing workshops are so popular!
Good job, good audience response, Janette. I think many folks who heard you will be motivated.
Thank you, Kim and Dave! I appreciate your support as we help others write down their stories to understand the “whys” in life. It’s a road to becoming “wise.”