Got questions about my memoir course?
I know investing in a writing course is a big deal. Especially when times are tough. So if you're wavering and have questions, here are some answer
It’s Friday evening, it’s cold and grey but the fire’s lit and instead of watching the Beckham Netflix documentary for a second time (though I’m tempted - anyone else?) I thought I’d spend a little time answering some FAQs I get about my writing course.
If you’re thinking about signing up but are hesitating, or you’re just curious about writing courses in general, hopefully this will be helpful.
So, here goes:
I’ve never written anything but want to start a memoir. Am I too inexperienced?
No! This course is for all emerging writers. My approach is encouraging, supportive and always aimed at helping you find your writing voice. Here’s what a recent course participant said on this very subject:
‘When I enrolled on the Memoir Course it was the first writing course I had ever done. I was terrified and completely outside my comfort zone. By the end of the first session I was so pleased I had enrolled and I was no longer scared. Lulah is really supportive and an excellent coach. The course has sparked ideas and given me tools which have made the impossible seem possible.’
I want to write about my family but don’t know what they’ll think about me sharing their stories. Should I ask them first?
Writing about real people - especially if they’re still alive - is always challenging. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. My advice is to centre the story around your experience of events, to be clear that you’re telling your truth, and to acknowledge that others might have a different perspective. I don’t advise asking permission or showing someone your work until you’ve completed a full draft. You can always tell them that you’re working on a family history but it can be really constricting to show people too early in a project. Write everything you want to write, and then tackle those issues when you’ve got a substantial manuscript.
I’d love to take part but don’t have the money right now. Is there any way I can join?
Yes, I offer one subsidised place to a writer in need. And I also accept payments in instalments. Just get in touch and we can talk about what would work for you.
How easy is it to get published?
There are hundreds of books published every day. But there are many more languishing in drawers and on hard-drives. The first step to getting published is to finish the book. It’s really that simple. Then make sure it’s as good as it possibly can be. And then you’ve got a chance. But the non-fiction market is competitive and publishers veer between wanting the next new big thing and playing it safe by taking on similar books to the current bestsellers. Doing my course is no guarantee of getting an agent or a publishing deal. What it will do is give you the tools and techniques to write the very best book you can. And really, that’s what matters.
Having said that, I’ve worked with writers who have gone on to find agents, get shortlisted for prizes and land publishing deals. The work starts here. The rest is a mixture of luck, serendipity, hard graft and telling a really compelling story in a unique voice.
Once you’ve got a polished three chapters and a clear vision and structure for the rest of your memoir, we can work on creating a book proposal. I’ve helped several writers create a cracking proposal to start submitting to agents. Here’s what one said this week:
‘Working with Lulah has been a game changer for me. I was stuck stuck stuck on my agent letter, synopsis and chapter outline. Together, Lulah and I have completed all three and I am excited to start approaching agents with the confidence of a professional pitch.’
I’ve got loads of ideas and material but can’t find a shape for my book. Where do I start?
The course is designed to help you find the voice and structure that will allow you to tell your story in the most effective way. We start by considering the issues of memory and truth, explore ways to bring place and the past to life, and play with different ways of framing the narrative. There’s nothing I love more than getting into the nitty-gritty of a structural problem! With the support of the group and input from me, you’ll be able to tease out the right direction for your book.
Got a question I haven’t covered? Ask me in the comments!
And if you’d like a free 20-minute chat to talk about anything memoir-related, you can book a call with me here →
I hope you have a happy weekend, whatever you’re up to. Thanks for reading.
L x