What’s the difference between a memoir and a memory? You forgot? Think about it. If you think about it, it’s a memory. Write it down; it’s a memoir. Can an experience be both? Absolutely.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI at CSULB) has been offering classes on memoir writing since we began in 1996. I was fortunate to be in the very first class and remember it well. It is a treasured memory that I have since written about and is now part of my memoirs.
The instructor for the first session was one of the founders of Senior University (now OLLI) and the first president of the school—Max Freedland. Max had a passion for memoir writing and his enthusiasm was contagious. He was a master at expressing his feelings and thoughts and encouraging students to incorporate their emotions into their stories.
At the time, Max had written about two thousand pages of autobiographical material which later became a book and a basis for instruction and analysis by the students. He is now deceased but the effects of his style and substance live on. I am sure that many of the pupils who had contact with Max were inspired by his teaching. I know I was.
A NOVEL APPROACH TO MEMOIR WRITING is still going strong. It is one of our most popular and enduring classes. Under the guidance of class leaders Florence Dodge and Josephine Fitzpatrick, it will continue to be a mainstay of our curriculum.
Memoir writing evokes interest in your personal history and frequently brings back long forgotten incidents, both traumatic and ecstatic—probably both. At the very least, it will awaken dormant recollections. You can share thoughts and critiques with your classmates for mutual benefit and enjoyment. Class meets Thursdays 8:15 – 9:45 AM. Write it down. Check it out.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at CSULB
Building HS&D, Rooms 100 & 101
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90840-5609
Phone: 562-985-8237 Fax: 562-985-8213
Web site: www.csulb.edu/centers/olli
Email: olli@csulb.edu
Creative Writing
Scott Ringwelski
French Conversation
Malcolm Green, B.A.
& M.A.
Jury System
Bill Drukker, J.D.
Lawn Bowling
John Arbogast
Political Alternatives-Part II
William Cox
The Law Can be a Kick in the Pants
Art Gottlieb
