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The Six-Word Memoir: An Exercise on Short, Powerful Stories

POSTED ON Jan 22, 2024

Written by Nicole Ahlering

Have you heard of the Six-Word Memoir? Exactly what it sounds like, it’s six words that sum up your life, a phrase that was officially coined by Larry Smith in 2006 and has become a global phenomenon.

Sounds challenging, doesn’t it? 

Smith, editor of SMITH magazine , asked his readers to describe their life in six words, and the idea stuck. Since then, thousands of folks have submitted their own Six-Word Memoirs.

Need an example? Perhaps the most famous Six-Word Memoir is “For sale: baby shoes, never worn,” often attributed to Ernest Hemingway.

We think you should try writing a Six-Word Memoir too.

This guide to the Six-Word Memoir includes:

Why should you write a six-word memoir.

In short, it can be a great tool for helping you hone in on your message, purpose or self-perception—all critical to writing a full-length memoir of your own. Consider it an essential exercise for understanding how to start a memoir .

Here are a few other reasons to do it: 

• It helps you figure out the core theme of your experiences. When you have so few words to summarize your entire life, you’re forced to look at the commonalities between everything you’ve experienced. Therein lies your core book theme . 
• It encourages clarity. It's easy to get verbose when we’re writing—especially about ourselves. With six words, there’s no room for extra prose. Every word counts. 
• It can act as a foundation for your larger memoir. Is there anything more intimidating than writing your life story? A Six-Word Memoir can create a jumping-off point for you to get started on your narrative and develop your memoir outline .
• It can help with marketing your book . Just like professionals are encouraged to have an “elevator speech” for networking opportunities, it’s great to have a shorthand way to describe your memoir. 

How to write a Six-Word Memoir in 3 steps

Unlike some writing prompts that encourage long paragraphs, this writing exercise is meant to encourage depth yet simplicity. Don’t overthink it! You'll inevitably start with more than six words – but you'll get there in the end.

Step 1: Reflect on your story so far

Think about significant events that have happened in your life. Ponder the emotions you’ve felt, the lessons you’ve learned, and the core themes that have occurred.

Maybe pick one particularly pivotal moment or memory.

Out of those reflections, what has had the most impact on you? What are you most inspired to share with others? These are sparks of your initial memoir ideas !

Step 2: Choose your six words 

Now is the hard part. Condense your discoveries from step one into just six words. Focus on your writing tone , the emotions you want to evoke in your reader, and the words that resonate with you most. 

Obviously, this is not the time for filler words. So make sure each word carries weight. We have a free tool that helps you improve your writing skills by rephrasing your sentences in a more concise way. Leverage tools like these!

Remember that you’ll likely have to write several Six-Word Memoirs before you land upon one you really love. That’s a very normal part of the process. 

Step 3: Edit and refine your memoir

After writing your Six-Word Memoir, take some time away from it to give your brain a break. Here at Self Publishing, we always tell our authors to “never edit while writing.”

But when you come back to it, do so with a critical eye. 

Are there words you can remove or replace with more evocative words? Are you aptly conveying your message? Is your short memoir clear and impactful? 

What are some Six-Word Memoir examples? 

Looking for some inspiration to write your Six-Word Memoir? We’ve got you covered. Here are a few: 

• “Dreamed big, stumbled often, never stopped.” 
• “Loved, lost, found strength in healing.”
• “Embraced flaws, painted life with authenticity.” 
• “Rainbows followed storms, light after darkness.” 
• “Built bridges, burned some, found peace.” 
• “Whispers of yesterday, echoes shaping today.” 
• “Found true love, married someone else.”
• “Wanderlust-filled, finally found home within myself.”
• “Raised by wolves, now leading pack.”
• “Failed often, succeeded where it mattered.”
• “Danced through life's storms, found sunshine.”
• “Lost keys, found purpose, changed locks.”
• “Dreamed big, stumbled, rose stronger.”
• “Broke rules, mended hearts, embraced chaos.”
• “Quiet rebel, loud thoughts, silent victories.”
• “Chased dreams, caught flights, built reality.”

Wow. Did reading any of these evoke some serious emotion for you? They did for me.

As you can see, many Six-Word Memoirs err on the side of poetic or esoteric. They are not literal summaries of your life in six words. That would be pretty hard to do. 

Instead, the idea is to evoke a little curiosity but have a clear intention behind your words. You can expand them into a full book later – or even publish a book of poetry !

Related: 31 Memoir Examples

What famous people have Six-Word Memoirs?

While looking for Six-Word Memoir examples, I was delighted to see that multiple well-known celebrities and famous people have accepted Larry Smith's challenge to write a short story. I loved these and I think you will too!

• Stephen Colbert: “Well, I thought it was funny.”
• Jane Goodall: “Motherhood, activism, discovering the unknown together.”
• Joan Baez: “Still searching for that perfect note.”
• Dave Eggers: “Fifteen years since last professional haircut.”
• Joyce Carol Oates: “Revenge is living well, without you.”
• Donald Trump: “Big hands, big hair, big ego.”
• Whoopi Goldberg: “Everything in life is beautiful. Y'all.”
• Sherman Alexie: “Despite illness, wife, dog survived me.”
• Al Roker: “Loved meteorology, but storms pass by.”
• Nora Ephron: “Secret of life: marry an Italian.”

As you can see in these examples, a Six-Word Memoir doesn't have to be deep and thought-provoking. They can be fun and silly as well.

By now the creative juices should be flowing. Now it's time to write one for yourself!

Related: The Best Celebrity Memoirs

Creative writing exercises using the Six-Word Memoir 

Why stop at writing just one Six-Word Memoir? You can write multiple of them and use them as tools to help formulate ideas for your larger book. Just like no one's life experiences are the exact same as yours, there are no rigid rules for how to write a memoir . A six-word memoir is also a great exercise if you're seeking inspiration on how to write book titles or exploring techniques on how to subtitle a book .

Try one (or a few) of these exercises to get the creative juices flowing: 

A memoir for each chapter of your life

We all have different seasons of our lives, so why not turn each into a mini-memoir? This can help you clarify what you’ve gotten out of each life phase, like your school years, your first job, a serious trial like an illness or the birth of your child. 

A memoir for each of your identities

To paraphrase Walt Whitman, you contain multitudes. You are not just a mom or just a sales representative. Your identity is tied to your culture, passions, relationships, and more. Write a Six-Word Memoir to express each facet of your identity. 

A memoir using metaphors 

Ah, the metaphor, one of the most beloved literary devices . If you’re up for a challenge, try writing your Six-Word Memoir using metaphors. Pick a theme, like nature, food, or sports, and see what you can convey. 

A memoir about change 

What if you reflect on the biggest periods of transformation in your life? Whether traveling the world, becoming a parent or taking on a big challenge, the events you’ve experienced changed you. Challenge yourself to write six words about that. 

Need more prompts to get your creativity flowing? We've curated a collection of 75 memoir writing prompts to help you craft your narrative.

What's your Six-Word Memoir?

If you intend to write your own memoir, crafting a six-word version (or a few) can be a beneficial and beloved part of your creative process. 

Of course, the process of expanding those six words into an entire book is significant. If you’re feeling intimidated by getting your life story onto the page (and getting it published), we’re here to help. 

At selfpublishing.com, we coach you with the strategies you need to get your book written and published, and we’re there to support you the entire way. Just schedule a book consultation to get started. 

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How to Write Great Six-Word Stories or Memoirs

Updated 10/12/2022

Published 07/2/2020

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Six-word stories are more than just a buzzword or internet craze. With one of the most popular examples penned by Ernest Hemingway himself, six-word stories are a unique take on memoirs. How do you want to write your life story ?

Jump ahead to these sections: 

What’s a six-word story or memoir, steps for writing a six-word story, example six-word stories.

A six-word story is exactly what it sounds like: six words that say something powerful, express a feeling, or share something intimate about your life. They’re a form of legacy, emphasizing the way that words have power and meaning. You don’t need a long-winded narrative to find meaning in your words (or story). 

Whether you’re looking to write a memoir, learn from the master writers, or just practice with a fun writing exercise, six-word stories are a great place to start. In this guide, we’ll share how to write great six-word stories or memoirs as well as some examples for inspiration. 

Six-word stories rest on one key concept: brevity is a virtue. Sure, you could wax poetic about your memories and how you want to be remembered , but there’s power in getting to the point.

A six-word story or memoir is just that—a story written in six words or less. Occasionally, you’ll find some “six-word stories” that are longer than six words. This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule by any means. The foundation of this writing exercise is to simply say more with less. 

William Faulkner, one of the greatest southern writers, put this feeling into words with his infamous quote. He says, “In writing, you must kill all your darlings.” 

This doesn’t mean to strip away everything that has meaning to you. On the contrary, this is a way to get to the heart of the matter. When you “kill your darlings,” you’re getting rid of everything unnecessary, all the flowery language that simply obstructs the view of the true core of your message. 

In creative writing, you can’t afford to get too attached to the characters, language, or plot lines. Everything is dispensable when it comes to the overall story. Sometimes that means making hard choices, stripping away everything extra, and going back to the basics. 

This is true of some of the greatest writing of all time. The best memoirs all rely on this idea of stripping away the unnecessary. It’s impossible to put someone’s entire story into words.

This would take years and wouldn’t even be interesting to read. Instead, writers craft the full narrative into something easier, something meaningful. This is the heart of the six-word story or memoir. 

Anyone can write a six-word story, regardless of experience or skill. Because they’re so short, they’re perfect for artist statements, writing exercises, and even complex jumping-off points for larger retellings.

Here are the steps to follow if you want to write your own six-word story or memoir. 

Step 1: Create a clear story

To begin, you’ll need a storyline. Though six-word stories are short, they still follow the same general rules as traditional narratives. This means they have a beginning, middle, and end. More particularly, they have a movement of conflict, action, and resolution.

These are the elements that make a story more than just a statement. There is a real feeling, and it’s easy to get a clear picture of the six-words in your mind. 

This is easier said than done, but consider some different conflicts. To make this relevant to your own life like a memoir, what are some obstacles you’ve overcome? Where do they begin and where do they end? Journaling or talking with a friend can help with this process.

Step 2: Start writing

Next, start jotting down ideas. You don’t need to limit yourself to six-words (yet). We’ll get to that later. To start, write your story as you would if you had no restrictions. Use symbols, imagery, and add characters as needed. 

Get a feel for the setting and place of your story. Step inside it and see it for what it is. Six-word stories commonly rely on imagery or symbolism to make an impact. Try to identify which symbols or images relate the most to what you’ve written so far. 

Remember, symbols come in all shapes and sizes. Small symbols often convey large concepts. The fewer words you need to express these symbols, the better. 

Step 3: Find your punchline

Your punchline is the “a-ha” moment. It’s that “oh, now I get it” realization that all six-word stories have in common. This is when there’s a real turning point in the narrative. You can think of this as a plot twist, moment of emotional realization, or anything that makes sense to you. 

How does the punchline appear in your story? What’s your big reveal? It’s common to start with context or place, followed by the punchline. The story might end here, or there might be some form of resolution. It’s not uncommon for these six-word stories or memoirs to be left unresolved. Consider what it is your readers should feel and work to craft that feeling. 

Step 4: Kill your darlings

Last but not least, kill your darlings. As Faulkner said, this is an essential part of the writing process. Take what you’ve written thus far and strip it to the bare bones. What do you have left?

What’s the most powerful part of your story? What makes the ready go “a-ha!” with a moment of epiphany, for better or worse. If you can’t bring it down to six words, don’t stress yourself. Let it sit for a while and return later, seeing if there’s anything else that doesn’t need to be there. 

Writing is an evolution. There’s no such thing as “perfect,” though there is such a thing as “done.” Sometimes the latter is better than the former, so know when it’s time to walk away and call your work a finished masterpiece. 

Tip: Aside from writing about someone's memory, a great way to capture what they mean to you is with a memorial diamond from Eterneva or a custom urn from Foreverence . Everyone wants to be remembered when they're gone. 

Six-word stories grapple with a lot of different themes and concepts. They’re often highly personal, and they rely on small and large symbols to make a powerful impact. Some are memoirs included in obituaries , and others are purely fictional. 

These stories supposedly began as Ernest Hemingway’s response to a bet that it wasn’t possible to write a story in six words. Though this has since been debunked, it is true that Hemingway proved his point. 

Let’s look at some examples so you can understand how six-word stories work in action. As you’ll quickly discover, it is possible to sum up an entire novel of feelings in just a few words.

For more six-word story inspiration, visit Six Word Stories to submit your own and browse categories. 

Funny six-word story examples

“I’m beside myself; cloning machine works.”  "I leave. Dog panics. Furniture shopping.”  “Coffee before art? Goodbye straight lines.”  “‘Reading for Dummies,’ somehow, never sold.” 

Sad six-word story examples

“For sale: baby shoes, never worn.”  “‘I’ll be back tomorrow.’ Years ago.”  “Selling parachute: never opened, slightly stained.”  “The smallest coffins are the heaviest.”  “Imagined adulthood. Gained adulthood. Lost imagination.” 

Love-related six-word story examples

“Left handed woman seeks Mr. Right.”  “Rainy evening, two strangers, one umbrella.”  “They lived happily ever after. Separately.” “He loves her, they’re ‘just friends.’” “Best weekend ever. He never called.” 

Say More With Less: Six-Word Stories

Storytelling takes many forms, but six-word stories are one of the shortest and most unique. You’ve likely encountered six-word stories or memoirs in your own life, but have you ever written one yourself? Though this is quite the creative writing challenge, it’s also an opportunity to put into words the feelings that are hard to capture. 

Whether these six-word stories help you understand feelings of grief, loss, or even joy, they're a unique way to see the world.  Words are their own form of art. They’re a legacy we leave of the stories we’ve told. Though six-word stories might be short, they’re worth so much more than the number of characters on the page. 

“Six Word Stories.” Six Word Stories. SixWordStories.net . 

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Creative Writing for Teens: The Six-Word Memoir Challenge

Sometimes I stumble upon an idea or story that sparks a creative teaching idea to use with my homeschool writing students. The story of Ernest Hemingway’s six-word memoir was one of those stories that lead to a memorable and fun creative writing project for the teens.

As soon as I read the story of the original six-word memoir, I knew I could create a short but fun writing project with this idea.

{This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure .}

Writing a Six-Word Memoir with Teens

According to legend, Ernest Hemingway was challenged to write a novel in six words.  He responded, “For Sale: Baby Shoes. Never worn.”  And thus, the six-word memoir was born .

I decided this would be the perfect challenge for my writing students.

Of course, I was pretty sure that coming up with six words to summarize their entire life might be a bit challenging, so instead we decided to do a shorter time period and write one each day.

Introducing the Six Word Memoir

We discussed a few published six-word memoirs from some of the books below. I did preview the books to select specific ones to share with the group because these books aren’t meant for children . Some of the memoirs referred to topics that might not be appropriate for your kids, select examples wisely .

Not Quite What I Was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous and Obscure by Rachel Fershleiser The Best Advice in Six Words: Writers Famous and Obscure on Love, Sex, Money, Friendship, Family, Work, and Much More by Larry Smith It All Changed in an Instant: More Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous and Obscure by Larry Smith

We read several examples and discussed the power of the six words chosen in each one. Each six-word memoir told us much more about the emotions and feelings of the writer. We could infer more about the situation than what we saw on the page.

Six-Word Memoir Challenge for Teens

After a great discussion about several examples in the books listed above, I offered a challenge to my students.

I challenged the students to write a six-memoir about their day for two weeks:  Capture an event during your day or a feeling about your day in six words. Then repeat. For 2 weeks. See what you discover.

Instead of trying to capture a long period of time in six words, they could focus on one day and try to capture events from it in six words.

Just for fun, I bought each of them a moleskin journal where they could record their daily six-word memoir. If they wanted to write more than one, there would be plenty of space. The journal pages also allowed plenty of space to illustrate their entries.

Six-Word Memoirs: The Two Week Challenge

I decided to join the challenge and write my own six-word memoirs each day. It was such a creative and fun writing experience. I have to admit that I enjoyed it so much that I often wrote more than one. Capturing an event in six words was fun and challenging.

The best part is that if felt like something anyone could complete and enjoy.

I don’t have permission to share the student’s writing, but here is a sample of my own two week challenge.

Thursday Sat at park for writing class.

Two periscope fails. Third finally succeeded.

Friday Book Club. No one likes Amy. (*note, we were reading, Little Women)

Being Effie again. I love this.

Saturday Effie’s last appearance. Ready for sweats.

Middle schoolers. They know Effie immediately.

Making Christmas gifts. Time is short.

Sunday First teenager. Melting Pot. Wonderful night.

Soccer in the rain? Sent Daddy.

Monday A day with no agenda. Fantastic.

Tuesday Science. Fossil. Museum. Friends. Muffin. Home.

Wednesday Uncle’s Birthday. Missed our FaceTime call.

Thursday Hotel for the night. Special treat.

Outback with friends. Love this bread.

Friday Jamestown. Colonial Playground. Please touch everything

Powhatan Indians. James Fort. Three Ships.

History comes alive. Stay and Play.

Saturday If: Local. Talks. Friends. Lunch. Jesus.

Sunday Six year old soccer. Too cold.

MVP rides home with me. Sweet.

Six Word Memoir Video Chat

The six-word memoir was the topic of one of my periscope chats, which is now available on YouTube:

Give it a go with your kids for a week. I bet you’ll love what everyone comes up with.

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6 Word Memoir: Teaching Ideas for ELA

• May 17, 2021

There seems to be some controversy about whether the six word memoir genre did or didn’t originate with Ernest Hemingway writing, “For sale, baby shoes, never worn.” But whether he did or he didn’t, there’s no question that it’s a unique creative genre worth exploring with students. There are so many ways to experiment with six word memoirs in class, so today I’m going to give you a whirlwind tour of ideas.

#1 Personal Memoirs

Six word memoirs can be a great way for students to experiment with writing without a lot of pressure. You can use them to get to know your students better at the beginning of the year, or to reflect on the school year at the end. Or you can use them during a narrative writing unit, first asking them to craft a narrative about a moment or event in their lives, then inviting them to transform it into a six word story. You can even use it in combination with multimedia, asking them to create a layered six word memoir, with a one-pager style reflection of who they are in the background, and then their six key words laid out boldly on top. You may be surprised by how much you learn about your students through identity memoir, moment memoirs, or layered memoirs like these.

#2 Character Memoirs

Another great option, once you’ve introduced the concept of a six word memoir, is to have students write them for characters. Start by guiding them to think about their chosen character. How would they describe that character? What story does the character tell about themselves? What secret stories do they feel the character keeps buried? How can they combine everything they know into one vivid line?

#3 Research Memoirs

If you’re trying to create some context for a book or a unit, and you’d like students to spend a day researching information on a person before reporting back to the class, a six word memoir can provide a great final product. Let students know how many sources you’d like them to dive into and give them some guiding questions for their research. Then have them take what they learned and put it into a six word memoir. Save some time at the end for each student to briefly report back, or do a gallery walk with the memoirs displayed with the research questions, side by side.

#4 Community Memoirs

Once your students have written their own six word memoirs and perhaps experimented with character or research memoirs as well, this project is a great way to connect your classroom to your community. Set up a table at lunch or in the library to invite faculty, staff, administrators, and students to contribute six word memoirs to a community wall reflecting the diverse beauty of experiences at your school. Or set up at a local farmer’s market, community event, or public library. Display student work as examples, and provide templates and colored markers or pencils for the guest writers.

OK, ready to get started? You can grab the beautiful templates shown in this post right here on Google Drive , or you can find my complete six word memoir unit on TPT right here. (If you’re a member of The Lighthouse , this unit will be part of your June materials!).

I’ll help you find the creative ELA strategies that will light up your classroom. Get ready for joyful teaching!

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I usually use 6-word memoirs during the first week of school, but I didn’t this year. And, I now know why. I love the blend of writing and art that our templates provide. I am officially 8 days into my 19th year in the classroom, and after using 6-word memoirs for several years in a row (always with great success), I felt “6-word weary.” Thanks so much for, Betsy, for continuing to push us forward, providing fresh takes and new twists on familiar ideas like this.

Cassie, I’m so glad you’re going to try this twist and that it’s providing a refresh for an old trick. Thank you for your kind words!

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How to Use 6-Word Memoirs in the Classroom

Activities in which students have six words to collect their thoughts can help build community and get classroom discussions started.

I launched the Six-Word Memoir project in 2006 with a question on what was then a strange new platform called Twitter: “Can you describe your life in six words?” While I suspected that the constraint of six words would fuel creativity, it wasn’t until I was invited to my nephew’s third-grade classroom to talk about six-word storytelling that I got my first glimpse of the format’s powerful possibilities in school. That morning, a few dozen elementary students shared stories of identity (“Born to be a spy, unnoticeable”), self-worth (“I live bigger than your labels”), agency (“Brainy, talkative, will never be quiet”), and more.

Since then, Six-Word Memoirs has become a valuable tool in many teachers’ toolboxes because it takes away the pressure of a whole blank page while helping kids focus on what’s important in writing: honest and specific storytelling. And what’s important in any young life: an understanding that no one knows or can tell your story better than you.

The six-word form is simple and adaptable and provides a great entry point for almost any subject, grade level, and topic. Below, I share six steps that apply to any Six-Word Memoirs lesson, followed by three classroom lessons.

Teaching Six-Word Memoirs

1. Introduce the Six-Word Memoir concept as a way students can describe their life using just two rules: one, they must use six words exactly, and two, they should be words that the students believe to be true and are exclusively their own.

2. Pick a topic or prompt. “How would you describe your life in six words?” is a great first prompt for any grade level.

3. Show examples of Six-Word Memoirs so students can see a variety of ways to think about the topic.

4. Give them time—either 10–15 minutes in class or as a homework assignment—to write their six words, and have each student read theirs aloud. Remember to share your own.

5. Leave time for discussion, either in small groups or with the whole class. Ask:

• How are your experiences and perspectives similar to or different from those of your classmates?
• What are you noticing about your favorite Six-Word Memoirs? Are they funny, inspiring, surprising, or something else?
• What common themes do you see in these memoirs?

6. If possible, display student work.

Six-Word Exercises

1. Playing the “how well do you know your classmates?” game: Two key values of Six-Word Memoirs are that anyone can do it and everyone plays by the same rules. Taylor Swift gets six words (“My diary is read by everyone”), Nora Z., an 11-year-old from Indiana, gets six words (“Mom just revoked my creative license”), and the creator of the Six-Word Memoir Project gets six words (“Big hair, big heart, big hurry”).

Have your students write their six words and then read a memoir aloud and ask the class to guess whose it is. It’s fun and a good way for the class to connect. When students hear, “Life is better with headphones on,” there are sure to be a lot of mental “likes” and classmates saying, “Yeah, me too.” Hearing, “Three schools, three years, what next?” is relatable for anyone who’s been the new kid.

2. Engaging more deeply with curriculum: Once the ice is broken, the six-word format offers a chance to go deeper. You may be looking for a reflection activity for the 100th day of school, an innovative way to explore Black History Month, or an entry point to the study of history, literature, or current events.

Almost every grade studies nonfiction, and if your students are learning about historical figures, you can invite them to write a Six-Word Memoir from a historical person’s point of view. Writing only six words helps students get to the essence of the figure they’re studying and helps them identify with someone who otherwise may seem larger than life. After reading The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, for example, students at South Side High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana, put themselves in the shoes of the narrator, writing, “Rain fell hard; Momma never flinched,” “Dad, put down the bottle, please?” and more.

If your classroom explores current events—transitions in our global economy, emerging political movements, debates about climate or technological advancements—ask your students to write six-word predictions about where they see these trends heading. This exercise helps students get started thinking critically about the issue or trend, and can be used to generate conversation or catalyze independent reflection.

3. Introducing difficult conversations: Teachers know that students arrive at the classroom as members of a complicated, ever-changing world and that they need to process this world and their place in it. One way to make these conversations easier is by breaking down big ideas into small, digestible chunks.

Andrea Franks, a fourth-/fifth-grade teacher in New York City, asks her students to reflect on social justice using just six words. Students have written, “Freedom for all, freedom for everyone,” “Small acts can make big differences,” “Dark skin, light skin, all equal,” and “Ready or not, time for change.” Franks then asks her students to think about how these memoirs reflect what they’re learning about civil rights and which historical figures might approve of these messages: Ruby Bridges? Diane Nash? Martin Luther King Jr?  Students then engage in deeper conversations, connecting their own experiences to the experiences of those who fought for all marginalized people.

Many students have struggled during the pandemic, and many educators tell me they have utilized the six-word format to help their students process this shared experience. Hundreds of these were compiled in a book I edited, A Terrible, Horrible, No Good Year: Hundreds of Stories on the Pandemic by Students, Teachers, and Parents . Memoirs like “Graduated fourth grade from my bedroom” (Leo F., fourth grade), “Hey Siri, give me social interaction” (Nate M., sixth grade), and “For sale: prom dress, never worn” (Caroline R., 12th grade) helped students express their emotions and gave the adults in their lives a window into their interior world.

ELA Matters

Engaging both middle school and high school learners!

How to Teach Writing and Build Community with Six-Word Memoir

Icebreakers and community building activities can be fun… so fun, in fact, that it can be easy to get carried away. If you’re like me, there’s been more than a few years you’ve made it to week 3 only to realize your way behind on your pacing guide. 

One of my favorite ways to build community without getting behind in content is to teach the Six-Word Memoir. 

What is the Six-Word Memoir? 

Simply put, Six-Word Memoir is telling your life story (or more realistically, part of it) in just six words. 

According to Larry Smith, the founder of the Six-Word Memoir project , the idea was inspired by an old legend about Earnest Hemingway: According to legend, Hemingway was challenged to write a complete story in just six words. He wrote “For sale. Baby shoes. Never worn” and won the bet. 

In 2006, writer Larry Smith posted a challenge on his website and with a simple tweet: “Can you describe your life in six words?” Thousands responded and the Six-Word Memoir project was born. Since then, millions of people have shared their story in six words and Larry has published ten books of Six Word Memoirs, including Six Words Fresh off the Boat (immigration stories),   I Can’t Keep My Own Secrets (teen stories) , and A Terrible Horrible, No Good Year: Stories of the Pandemic by Teachers, Students, and Parents.

For teachers, the Six-Word Memoir has become a favorite back-to-school activity, allowing classes to build community, teachers to dive into content sooner, students to express themselves and get to know each other better, and parents to see a really cool sample of student work on Back to School Night.  

Why Six Word Memoir is Helpful for Teachers

Community building.

Unlike typical icebreakers like name games and speed dating (which, by the way, I absolutely love), the Six-Word Memoir is a getting-to-know-you activity that invites community building and sharing on a much deeper level with out forcing students to get too personal, since students choose the story they want to tell. 

Teaching Content

Nearly every grade-level has a Common Core State Standard asking students to analyze an author’s word choice and structure, making Six-Word Memoirs a perfect way to introduce diction and syntax. 

I love to talk about the author’s choice of that word versus all the others he or she could have used. We also discuss how authors structure sentences in order to fit into the constraints of having just six words. For example, what kind of message is communicated when the subject is moved to the end of the sentence? Or in some cases, left entirely out of the sentence?  

Strengthening Analysis Skills

Throughout the activity, you’ll be showing and discussing examples of other Six-Word Memoirs, inviting the opportunity to set norms and practice appropriate discussion etiquette. 

Students can identify larger themes behind the memoir and identify literary devices, voice, tone, and other literary elements at play in the memoir. 

Building Writing Skills 

Students get to move from the sidelines to the court as they put their analysis into practice and begin writing their own Six-Word Memoir. 

Students think through themes and larger, complex stories, and wrestle with how to curate that story into just six words. 

Because students have just six words to use, they have the space, time, and incentive to put an exceptional amount of care into their writing. Introduce the Six-Word Memoir and watch your students pour over those 6 words for an amazingly long time. 

Introducing the Writing Process

Six-Word Memoir is a perfect writing assignment for the beginning of the year because it’s short enough to teach or review the entire writing process without stealing days and weeks of instructional minutes. 

Collecting Writing Samples

Many teachers experience pressure to collect data on students or give feedback to parents or other teachers within the first few weeks of school. This can be next to impossible for us English teachers with our 200 plus students and the nature of reading, evaluating, and giving feedback on writing. 

With Six-Word Memoirs, teachers can quickly gain a basic sense of student writing ability. I recommend asking students to end with a reflection or a single paragraph analyzing their own memoir. This gives you more to work with should you need it and allows you to see two types of writing: narrative and analytical. 

Why Students Love Six-Word Memoir

Students love Six-Word Memoir activity because it’s highly engaging and a little addictive. Six-Word Memoir are so short and simple that it can actually be quite hard to stop reading them once you get going. 

Writing Six-Word Memoirs is also oddly addictive. They’re just easy enough that you feel satisfied easily, yet we all have such multifaceted lives that we find we have more stories we want to tell or other ways we want to tell them. 

Six-Word Memoirs allow us to give just enough detail that they can be incredibly personal, but they also prevent us from getting too much in the details. Plus, students love the level of choice involved: they can tell a surface-level story about going to Disneyland with their dad or a more personal story about losing their dog, their parents’ divorce, or being bullied in 3rd grade. It’s their choice.

Students also have a ton of choice when it comes to tone. Some Six-Word Memoirs will make you cry; some will make you laugh; and others will inspire you to close the laptop and get out there to make the world a better place. 

Finally, students love seeing memoirs from their favorite celebrities, their teachers, and their classmates as a wonderful way to get to know each other in ways they never have before – even if they’ve been in school together since first grade. 

How to Teach Six-Word Memoir

1. introduce memoir.

Start by introducing the genre of memoir. I like to describe it as “fictionalized autobiography” – meaning that the essence is true, but every tiny detail may not be factual the way it needs to be in a biography.

This description also invites the conversation about the role characterization and literary devices play in writing memoir. 

2. Analyze Examples of Six-Word Memoirs 

Next, you’ll want to gather a few really great examples of memoirs for students to look at and discuss. If you plan to use the Six-Word Memoir activity to teach diction and syntax, choose examples that align with that goal. 

Some questions you might pose to the class are: What story does the memoir tell? HOW does it tell the story effectively? …Or ineffectively, of course?

I also like to include 1 or 2 Six-Word Memoirs that I feel demonstrate weaker writing or that don’t meet my expectations. 

3. Introduce the Writing Process: Brainstorm Topics & Invite Revision

Encourage students to brainstorm several ideas for topics before committing to just one. It might also be useful to have some prompts and suggestions in mind for students who feel stuck. Many times, students get the idea that memoir is for writing about traumatic, heroic, or otherwise exceptional experiences, and therefore, they can’t possibly fit in. 

Help them break this assumption by encouraging them to write about common topics like first love, simple everyday moments with pets, special days with family, birthdays, moving, moments of confusion or fear like being lost as a child, etc. 

As students write, encourage them to ask themselves how hard each word is “working” in the memoir – is it earning its keep? 

Another suggestion is to ask them to write the memoir in 3 different ways before committing to one. Again, the Six-Word Memoir is wonderful for teaching the writing process because it’s so short – we’d never ask students to write an essay in 3 different ways, yet a Six-Word Memoir is short enough to help students see the myriad ways an idea can be expressed. 

4. Give Space and Time

Six-Word Memoirs are so short that it can be tempting to rush it along, but this is an activity worth spending the time on – after all, you’re killing two birds with one stone by building community and teaching content, right? 

Allow students the time they need to get their Six-Word Memoir exactly as they’d like. This activity is an awesome one for introducing after you’ve set up your independent reading routine so that those students who finish early have something to do while others are still working. 

5. Provide Opportunities for Sharing

When it comes to building community with Six-Word Memoir, the magic really happens in the sharing. 

There are lots of ways to invite sharing. 

Teachers can go traditional or old school with quick presentations: Students can share their memoir with the class and share anything else they’d like about the story or their writing process. I like to have students sit in a large circle for this one in order to make it feel less intimidating at the start of the year.

Alternatively, teachers can invite sharing through a silent gallery walk: Students set their memoir on their desk and then move around the room as they read each memoir. I love to give students post-it notes as they walk around, so they can leave compliments or questions for the author. 

I always wrap up with an overall discussion – takeaways about shared experiences in the classroom, what they learned about each other, a reflection on the writing process or their experience with writing a Six-Word Memoir.

Join the Conversation

Have you tried Six-Word Memoir yet? Tell us all about it in the comments!

Looking for ready-made materials for teaching Six-Word Memoir? 

Check out Jen’s Six-Word Memoir activity , which has ready-to-go materials for teaching Six-Word Memoir, including defining the memoir genre, introducing diction and syntax, sample Six-Word Memoirs for discussion (with sample analysis!), prompts to get students going, and materials for guiding students through the writing process. 

Note: Six-Word Memoir is a registered Trademark. The Six-Word Memoir format is used with permission of Larry Smith, founder of The Six-Word Memoir Project. For more information about Six-Word Memoirs and how to create your own classroom book, see  www.sixinschools.com .

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Exploring the Power of Language with Six-Word Memoirs

• Resources & Preparation
• Instructional Plan
• Related Resources

What do the words we write really have to say about us? In this lesson, students examine the power of word choice as they write six-word memoirs of their lives. After manipulating the language of their memoir with an interactive tool, students reflect on synonymous words that they have explored and choose the best one to use to tell the story of their lives.

Featured Resources

From theory to practice.

In "Register and Charge: Using Synonym Maps to Explore Connotation," Darren Crovitz and Jessica A. Miller argue that students' typical understanding of the word synonym as meaning "'a word that means the same as another word'" is "at best an oversimplification and at worst a way to end thinking about what words actually signify" (49). They advocate for investigations into language and word groups to allow students to discover that "the subtlety of just how and to what extent [words are] similar makes all the difference when it comes to choosing the best word for a given purpose" (49). This lesson encourages students to explore the subtleties of shifting connotation and meaning affected by word choice.

Further Reading

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

• 1. Students read a wide range of print and nonprint texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works.
• 2. Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions (e.g., philosophical, ethical, aesthetic) of human experience.
• 3. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies, and their understanding of textual features (e.g., sound-letter correspondence, sentence structure, context, graphics).
• 4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.
• 5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
• 8. Students use a variety of technological and information resources (e.g., libraries, databases, computer networks, video) to gather and synthesize information and to create and communicate knowledge.
• 9. Students develop an understanding of and respect for diversity in language use, patterns, and dialects across cultures, ethnic groups, geographic regions, and social roles.
• 11. Students participate as knowledgeable, reflective, creative, and critical members of a variety of literacy communities.
• 12. Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Materials and Technology

• Word Matrix student interactive
• Video: Six Word Memoirs by Teens
• Video: Six-Word Memoirs, the book
• Video: “Six Tips for Writing Six-Word Memoirs”
• Computers with Internet access
• Choosing the Best Word: Six-Word Memoirs

This site includes six-word memoirs written by a variety of authors on life stories.  Also included are videos about the memoirs and information about Six-Word Memoir books.

On this site, students can explore memoirs and join thousands of storytellers to have a chance to be in a future book of Six-Word Memoirs.

This wiki includes six-word memoir films created by students, for students.

Preparation

• Locate one or more copies of the Six-Word Memoir books . Familiarize yourself with the content within the book(s). You may wish to choose a few memoirs to share with and/or point out to the students.
• Six Word Memoirs by Teens
• Six-Word Memoirs, the book
• “Six Tips for Writing Six-Word Memoirs”
• Test the Word Matrix student interactive. You will need computers with internet access for each student to use this interactive.  If computer accessibility is a problem, print out paper copies of the interactive and make enough copies for each student.
• Photocopy the Choosing the Best Word: Six-Word Memoirs handout for students.
• Familiarize yourself with the ideas of synonyms, connotation, register, and sound/rhythm. Additional teacher information on synonyms and language can be found in a variety of articles from English Journal , Vol. 97, No. 4, March 2008 , with the issue theme “Teaching Spelling and Vocabulary in High School.”

Student Objectives

Students will:

• define synonym and consider the implications of multiple word meanings for authors attempting to choose the most effective word in a given situation.
• investigate the similarities and differences within word groups on the basis of connotation and register.
• create, reflect on, and revise a memoir, taking into account word choice and message.

Session One

• Begin a class discussion with students about memoirs and their “life stories.”  What do students consider to be their “life story”? Would they need to write a novel to explain everything, or could they tell about one event that helped shape them as a person? Explain to students that they are going to be writing memoirs of their lives, but there’s a catch—they only have six words to portray themselves however they wish and to get a message across.
• Introduce the idea of six-word memoirs by projecting  Six Word Memoirs by Teens or  Six-Word Memoirs, the book . You may also wish to have some Six-Word Memoir books available for students to peruse after the video to see more examples.
• After reading/seeing some six-word memoirs, what surprises you about this form?
• What’s the difference between a story and a memoir?  Why do we tell stories?  Who knows your story best?
• How is it both possible and impossible to distill the essence of who you are into six words?  Which author do you think does the best job of it and why?
• Again, explain the parameters of the assignment: students must write a personal memoir in only six words. To give students a bit more information about what’s required, show students the “Six Tips for Writing Six-Word Memoirs” video. Allow for students’ questions and then ask that students spend some time brainstorming and writing down different possibilities for their own six-word memoir. Eventually, ask students to choose one memoir that they deem their “favorite” and they would like to use for the remainder of this lesson.
• Ask students to write down a definition of the word synonym and provide several examples.
• Arrange students in small groups to share their definitions and examples. As they share, ask them to look for similarities and differences in their definitions and examples. Have groups share their findings with the entire class and create a class definition of the word synonym , to be written on the board or chart paper.
• Facilitate a discussion on how a poet or author might choose the "best word" for their piece of writing when there may be several words in the English language that express the same, or nearly the same, idea or concept.
• Connotation: the emotional or personal associations the word carries, beyond its literal definition.
• Register: the level of formality or informality associated with the word.
• Sound and rhythm: the way words sound and scan contribute to their appropriateness.
• Remind students to keep the memoir that they chose to use for the remainder of this lesson. If they wish, they may continue brainstorming and working on their memoir outside of class, as long as they bring their chosen memoir to the next session.

Session Two

• Note to the Instructor : Synonyms can be any part of speech (e.g. nouns , verbs , adjectives , adverbs or prepositions ), as long as both members of the pair are the same part of speech.
• Give students a few minutes to make their list of synonymous words (they may use a thesaurus if necessary) and think about how they actually differ in regard to connotation and register. Ask students to share examples and explain the differences they see.
• Inform students that they will be using an online tool to explore the ideas of synonyms, connotation, and register further by arranging words that have the same meaning as their focus word but vary according to connotation and/or register.
• Direct students to the Word Matrix tool online and ask them to select the option to organize words by connotation and register. Students will need to create a new concept that includes their focus words and the synonymous words in their list. You may wish to model this process before having students work independently.
• After creating their concepts, each student should arrange their words according to relative charge in connotation and formality of register. Point out that there are not right or wrong answers to this activity. More important than where the students end up putting words is the explanations they write about what the words mean and how they relate to each other. They should indicate their thinking by double-clicking each word and writing a brief justification for its placement.
• Explain to students that they can access online resources and get more information about connotation and register by clicking on the orange question mark within the tool. They should use the back navigation within the tool (not the back arrow in the browser) to get back to their work within the matrix .
• Have students print their completed matrices . Review them before the next session to gauge student understanding of connotation and register.
• Ask students to rewrite their six-word memoir by substituting each synonym in the place of the focus word that they originally chose. Thus, they should have multiple examples of the same six-word memoir with a different synonym replacing the focus word in each example. Students should complete this activity before the next session.

Session Three

• Ask students to take out their list of memoirs within which they substituted different synonyms for their focus word. Have them take a moment to review the different memoirs and how they changed the meaning of the memoir.
• Have students take out their  Choosing the Best Word: Six-Word Memoirs handout, on which they originally wrote their focus word and their synonyms. Ask them to reflect on how their word choice affected the meaning of their different memoirs. They should write about their thoughts and the memoir they prefer (with reasoning) on the handout under the Reflection Question.
• After all students have completed the handout, have students take turns sharing their experience. They should share their original memoir, what their synonyms were, and the final memoir they decided on (along with their reasoning). Allow for other students to ask questions about the students’ word choice if they so choose.
• create a class book of memoirs;
• produce a video of your students’ memoirs, much like the videos they watched at the beginning of the session; or
• have students submit their own six-word memoir at www.SMITHteens.com .
• Allow students time to study their classmates’ memoirs and ask questions to get to know each other better and build a stronger classroom community!
• Make six-word memoirs a part of your classroom routine. Do warm-ups or exit slips that ask students to write six-word memoirs. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll learn about students based on their memoirs!
• Present other short form writing choices for students to experiment with such as Haiku . Have them follow the same steps of substituting different synonyms into their writing to focus on word choice.
• Expand on the idea of a six-word memoir while still focusing on word choice and story elements. Have students increase the length of their memoir.
• Connect six-word memoirs to a literature activity by having students write literary characters’ six-word memoirs.
• Have students produce a video of their memoirs to post to You Tube or another video site.  Use the video as an electronic scrapbook of the students in each class.

Student Assessment / Reflections

• Provide formative feedback through the completed matrices , synonym lists, and any other student work prior to the project.
• Evaluate students’ understanding of the project and completion of all of the steps during and after their oral presentation of their findings.
• Student Interactives
• Lesson Plans
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• Calendar Activities

Explore the similarities and differences among words typically considered synonyms with this tool that allows middle- and secondary-level students organize groups of words by connotation on one axis and by register on another.

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Unleash Your Creativity: Crafting Six-Word Memoirs

Creative Writing Six Word Memoirs

Introduction.

Hello Readers,

1 Picture Gallery: Unleash Your Creativity: Crafting Six-Word Memoirs

Welcome to our article on creative writing using six-word memoirs. In this piece, we will dive deep into the world of concise storytelling and explore how six-word memoirs can captivate readers and convey powerful emotions. Whether you are an aspiring writer or simply curious about the art of storytelling, this article will provide valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your creative writing skills. So let’s embark on this journey together and discover the magic of six-word memoirs!

Image Source: wordpress.com

In this article, we will cover the following topics:

Table of Contents

1. What are six-word memoirs?

2. Who can write six-word memoirs?

3. When did six-word memoirs become popular?

4. Where can you find examples of six-word memoirs?

5. Why are six-word memoirs effective?

6. How to write compelling six-word memoirs?

7. Advantages and disadvantages of six-word memoirs

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

9. Conclusion

10. final remarks, 1. what are six-word memoirs 📝.

Six-word memoirs are an innovative form of storytelling that challenges writers to convey their life experiences or emotions in exactly six words. These concise narratives are a creative way to distill complex thoughts into a short and impactful format. By carefully selecting each word, writers can create a powerful and thought-provoking memoir that resonates with readers.

The concept of six-word memoirs was popularized by Larry Smith, the founder of SMITH Magazine, who encouraged people to share their life stories in just six words. The challenge quickly gained momentum and became a global phenomenon, with people from all walks of life participating and sharing their own unique perspectives through these succinct narratives.

Some examples of six-word memoirs include:

Lost myself, found strength, kept going. Loved deeply, laughed often, lived fully. Chaos within, calm amidst the storm.

2. Who can write six-word memoirs? ✍️

Anyone can write six-word memoirs! Whether you are an experienced writer or just starting out, this form of creative expression is open to all. Six-word memoirs are particularly popular among those who enjoy brevity and want to challenge themselves to convey a powerful message in a limited space.

These memoirs can be personal reflections, fictional narratives, or even social commentaries. Regardless of your background or writing experience, writing six-word memoirs allows you to explore your creativity and experiment with different storytelling techniques.

3. When did six-word memoirs become popular? ⏳

The concept of six-word memoirs gained popularity in the early 2000s when Larry Smith launched a project called Six-Word Memoirs on SMITH Magazine’s website. The project aimed to collect and share six-word stories from people around the world. The response was overwhelming, and it sparked a global movement of concise storytelling.

Since then, six-word memoirs have continued to captivate readers and writers alike. They have been featured in books, magazines, and even incorporated into educational curricula as a creative writing exercise. The popularity and impact of six-word memoirs have solidified their place in the world of storytelling.

4. Where can you find examples of six-word memoirs? 📚

If you’re looking for inspiration or want to explore the world of six-word memoirs, there are various resources available to you. SMITH Magazine’s website is a great starting point, as it features an extensive collection of six-word memoirs from contributors around the world. These memoirs cover a wide range of topics and emotions, providing a rich tapestry of storytelling possibilities.

Additionally, several books have been published featuring compilations of six-word memoirs. These books showcase the diversity and creativity of this storytelling form, offering a glimpse into the lives and experiences of individuals in just six words.

5. Why are six-word memoirs effective? 🎯

Six-word memoirs are effective because they condense complex emotions and experiences into a concise and impactful format. With just six words, writers have the power to evoke strong emotions, spark curiosity, and leave a lasting impression on readers.

The brevity of six-word memoirs forces writers to carefully choose each word, eliminating any unnecessary fluff and focusing on capturing the essence of their story. This concise format also makes these memoirs highly shareable, allowing them to spread quickly through social media and other online platforms.

Furthermore, six-word memoirs invite readers to actively interpret and engage with the story. The limited word count leaves room for imagination and personal connection, creating a unique and interactive reading experience.

6. How to write compelling six-word memoirs? 🖊️

Writing a compelling six-word memoir requires careful thought and precision. Here are some tips to help you craft impactful memoirs:

Focus on a specific emotion or experience. Choose your words wisely to convey maximum impact. Experiment with different sentence structures and word placements. Use vivid imagery to engage the reader’s senses. Edit ruthlessly to ensure your memoir is concise and powerful. Seek feedback from others to refine your memoirs. Practice regularly to enhance your skills and creativity.

7. Advantages and Disadvantages of Six-Word Memoirs 📖

Like any form of creative expression, six-word memoirs have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore both sides:

Advantages:

Encourages creativity and brevity in storytelling. Provides a unique and engaging reading experience. Allows for personal expression and self-reflection. Can be easily shared and circulated on social media. Provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. Offers a valuable writing exercise for beginners. Helps develop concise and impactful writing skills.

Disadvantages:

Can be challenging to convey complex ideas in just six words. May limit the depth and nuance of storytelling. Requires careful word selection and editing. May not appeal to readers who prefer longer narratives. Could be perceived as a gimmick by some critics. May oversimplify or trivialize certain experiences. Difficult for beginners to master the art of brevity.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

Q1: can i use more or fewer than six words for my memoir.

A1: The essence of a six-word memoir lies in its brevity. While you can certainly use more or fewer words, sticking to exactly six words challenges you to distill your story into its core elements and create a captivating narrative.

Q2: Are six-word memoirs only for personal stories?

A2: Not at all! While personal stories are popular choices, six-word memoirs can encompass a wide range of themes, including fictional narratives, social commentaries, or even abstract concepts. The key is to convey a meaningful message or emotion in just six words.

Q3: How do I overcome writer’s block when crafting six-word memoirs?

A3: Writer’s block can be frustrating, but it’s a common challenge for all writers. When facing a creative block, try stepping away from your writing and engage in activities that inspire you. Read books, listen to music, or take a walk in nature. Inspiration can strike at any moment, so be open to new experiences.

Q4: Can I use punctuation or symbols in my six-word memoirs?

A4: Absolutely! Punctuation and symbols can add depth and meaning to your memoirs. However, remember to use them sparingly and ensure they enhance the overall impact of your story.

Q5: Are there any specific platforms for sharing six-word memoirs?

A5: While there are no dedicated platforms solely for sharing six-word memoirs, you can utilize various social media platforms, writing communities, or personal blogs to showcase your memoirs. Don’t hesitate to start your own online movement and encourage others to share their stories as well!

Dear Readers,

As we conclude our exploration of creative writing using six-word memoirs, I hope you have gained valuable insights into this unique form of storytelling. Whether you choose to write your own memoirs or simply appreciate the power of concise narratives, six-word memoirs offer a captivating and thought-provoking way to express yourself.

Remember, the key to a compelling six-word memoir lies in carefully selecting each word and unleashing your creativity. So go ahead, embrace brevity, and let your words captivate the hearts and minds of readers.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the world of creative writing using six-word memoirs. We hope you have found inspiration and knowledge to enhance your storytelling skills. Now, it’s time to unleash your imagination, embrace brevity, and create your own memorable six-word memoirs.

Remember, the power of storytelling lies in capturing emotions, evoking empathy, and leaving a lasting impact on readers. So grab your pen, unleash your creativity, and embark on a captivating journey through the art of six-word memoirs.

Happy writing!

This post topic: Creative Writing

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Six Word Memoirs

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Danny Snelson

6 Word Memoir

In the vast world of writing, where formats range from dialogue writing to scriptwriting, and from journal writing to article writing , there exists a unique and intriguing form known as the 6 Word Memoir. This minimalist style of writing, which can be as descriptive as a full-length memoir, has gained popularity for its brevity and the challenge it presents to writers.

1. 6 Word Memoir Creative Writing Example

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2. 6 Word Memoir Narrative Example

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3. 6 Word Memoir Worksheet Example

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4. 6 Word Memoir Activity Example

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5. 6 Word Memoir Project Example

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6. 6 Word Memoir Checklist Example

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7. 6 Word Memoir Example

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8. Writing 6 Word Memoir Example

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9. 6 Word Memoir for Les Miserables Example

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10. 6 Word Memoir Template

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11. 6 Word Memoir Objective Example

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12. 6 Word Memoir Rubric Example

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13. 6 Word Memoir Assignment Example

14. 6 Word Memoir Fillable Example

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15. 6 Word Memoir Lesson Plan Example

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16. 6 Word Memoir Format

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17. Simple 6 Word Memoir Example

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18. Sample 6 Word Memoir Example

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19. Basic 6 Word Memoir Example

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20. Formal 6 Word Memoir Example

21. Standard 6 Word Memoir Example

22. Printable 6 Word Memoir Example

23. Editable 6 Word Memoir Example

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What is a 6-Word Memoir?

A 6 Word Memoir is a form of micro-storytelling that encapsulates a significant aspect of one’s life or experiences in just six words. It is a derivative of memo writing but with a twist. The concept was inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s famous six-word story: “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.” This form of writing encourages writers to be concise yet impactful, making every word count.

How to Write a 6-Word Memoir

Before we delve into the steps of crafting a 6 Word Memoir, it’s important to understand that this form of writing, while seemingly simple, requires a deep level of introspection and a knack for choosing the right words.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Life

The first step in writing a 6 Word Memoir is to reflect on your life experiences. Think about the moments that have shaped you, the people who have influenced you, and the events that have left a lasting impact.

Step 2: Identify a Central Theme

Once you have reflected on your life, identify a central theme or idea that you want to convey. This could be a life lesson, a personal belief, a significant event, or an aspect of your identity.

Step 3: Write Down Your Thoughts

Start by writing down your thoughts in a free-flowing manner, without worrying about the word limit. This process, similar to journal writing , allows you to explore your thoughts and feelings more deeply.

Step 4: Condense Your Thoughts

Now comes the challenging part: condensing your thoughts into six words. This requires a careful selection of words that can convey your message effectively. Remember, your 6 Word Memoir should be as descriptive as possible within the word limit.

Step 5: Review and Refine

Finally, review your 6 Word Memoir. Does it convey the message you intended? Is it impactful? If not, refine it until you are satisfied. This step is similar to an article review , where you critically evaluate your work and make necessary improvements.

1. How is a 6 Word Memoir different from other writing formats?

Unlike other writing formats such as persuasive writing , college essays , or scriptwriting , a 6 Word Memoir is a form of micro-storytelling that requires you to convey a significant message in just six words. It challenges you to be concise yet impactful.

2. Can a 6 Word Memoir include dialogue?

Yes, a 6 Word Memoir can include dialogue. However, given the word limit, it’s crucial to ensure that the dialogue contributes significantly to the overall message.

3. How can I make my 6 Word Memoir more descriptive?

Making a 6 Word Memoir descriptive involves choosing words that evoke emotions, imagery, or sensory experiences. It’s about making every word count.

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2024 Creative Nonfiction (Up to 2,500 Words)

The Bacopa Literary Review is looking to publish true stories, written beautifully, and based on the author’s  experiences, perceptions, and reflections in the form of personal memoir  or literary essay (for example, nature, travel, medical, spiritual,  food writing).

Guidelines:

• You must be 18 years old or older.
• Only one submission to Creative Nonfiction, and do not submit to another genre unless this submission has been declined. Your uploaded file must contain only the title and work itself, not the author's name.
• One piece, limit 2500 words
• Double spaced, Arial 12-point typeface preferred 
• Submit the file in .doc .docx or .rtf  only
• Bacopa Literary Review does not accept previously published material

The submission process includes a text entry box titled "COVER LETTER,"  where you provide the following information:

• Name, address, email, phone, title, word count and bio of 50 words or fewe r. This is the only place where your name appears.
• Where did you hear about Bacopa Literary Review ?

Stephanie Seguin

Creative Nonfiction Editor

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"I love that Six Words is truly a community. I love that people come and go, and I especially love that people stay."

August’s Memoirist of the Month: Kathryn Campbell

"I always thought I’d write a novel, and when I was younger I’d draft chapters with the big end goal in mind. But when I discovered short story form, and then poetry, and then six words, I came to the realization that often, less is more."

Kathryn Campbell has shared so many milestones with  SMITH (from “Yes! Yes! 5 years cancer free.” to “She turns 0-4; I turn 4-0.”), it’s hard to believe it’s been a mere two years since she joined us. As SMITH member  Lillybrook , Kathryn’s memoirs are insightful and touching (“Failed moments are awarded with wisdom.”), clever and introspective (“So perfectionist even my blood's A+.”) and show she’s wise beyond her years (“Important life lesson: do no harm.”). We were fortunate to catch the super-busy Kathryn during her summer break and are thrilled to feature her as SMITH’s Memoirist of the Month for August. Thanks to our friends at  Spreadshirt . Kathryn can mark this milestone with a Six-Word Memoir T-shirt of her choice.

When did you start writing, and what have been turning points in your creative life? I started my first diary when I was six years old. I still have that Hallmark book with its keyed lock and green gingham cover. Most of my notes were pretty bland, but I wrote every day. Writing in a diary taught me that recording time illuminates those moments in life, both extraordinary and mundane, that you don’t see if you don’t document them. Continue reading

July’s Memoirist of the Month: Dick Peterson

"Reading and writing Sixes provides a creative spark, as does commenting and conversing with the other Sixers. What a weapon against writer’s block it is. Seeing what other people do with words makes you a better writer."

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"For the shy poets, taking a risk in six words to share a secret, a memory, or a fear is easier than delving into a longer poem."