Memoirs of the Soul

Memoirs of the Soul teaches readers how to write about the times of wonder in their lives, the sources of their strength, their creativity, resilience and moments of personal transformation. Unlike traditional memoir writing, which focuses on retelling the events of one's life, this book will help readers recognize and explore the spiritual aspects of themselves--their inner lives, their creativity and resilience. Although the word spiritual means different things to different people, Phifer associates it with times when readers have experienced particular states of grace, mercy, compassion, reverence, awe and intuitive knowing--a connection to someone or something. Designed to be used by groups in a classroom setting as well as by individuals, Memoirs of the Soul leads readers through a process of self-exploration, resulting in a personal document to be shared with loved ones or published for all to enjoy. Books on memoir writing and spirituality are big sellers, especially among women and older readers. Some of the biggest sales in recent years have been racked up by books that reflect a uniquely contemporary search for...a personal spirituality. --Publishers Weekly Today, more than ever before...vast numbers of people are eager to spill the most minute details of their lives. For most, there is a desire to create a permanent record of their experiences and leave a legacy for their family. --Time Nan Phifer has taught memoir-writing workshops and creative writing throughout the Northwest. the author of Writing Your Life: Developing Skills Through Life Story Writing and Writing for the Workplace, Phifer currently teaches a workshop entitled Writing the Spiritual Memoir through the Lane Literary Guild. She was Associate Director of the Oregon Writing Project at the University of Oregon. She lives in Eugene, Oregon.