Memoir & Counter-Memory with Lamisse Hamouda

Explore the possibilities of counter-memory in memoir by mapping out, and questioning, the assumptions we hold of the world and ourselves.

Many writers approaching memoir start with a set idea or narrative for their book: after all, what do we know better than our own lives? In this workshop, we explore the potential of counter-memory in memoir writing: questioning our assumptions, interrogating the premise of truth in memoir, and find unexpected connections that can take our life stories to new and interesting places.

Learning outcomes

In this workshop, participants will explore: 

• Memoir with a message: how to create impact with your memoir
• Applied critical theory: using critical theory tools to develop your memoir
• Tools for drafting: idea generation and writing output
• The use of personal archives (i.e. email, letters, documents, photos) in memoir
• Using interviews in memoir: verbatim excerpts or for the development of prose.

Format

This is an in-person workshop with a focus on writing craft; it will be held at State Library of Queensland. This workshop is suitable for writers of all levels and backgrounds.

About Lamisse

Lamisse (she/her) is a youth worker, writer, poet and workshop facilitator. Her first book, 'The Shape of Dust' (Pantera Press, 2023) is a political memoir co-authored with her father, Hazem Hamouda. Lamisse credits much of her learning and thinking to reading, deep listening, and collaborations with community, family and friends. For more details on Lamisse's work and writing, visit her website: lamissehamouda.com.au

For more information about Queensland Writers Centre’s Program of Events and answers to FAQs, please visit: www.queenslandwriters.org.au/program-info