BCA's Bronx Memoir Project (BMP) Workshop Series continues with Series II: Inherited Memories: A Generative Memoir Writing Workshop led by Alicia Anabel Santos. This free virtual workshop series is open to all regardless of writing experience.
Memories are how stories survive, whether inherited from our ancestors or imposed upon us by history. These stories shape our identities, perspectives, and legacies. In this four-part memoir writing workshop, participants will explore the power of memory in storytelling. How do our inherited memories affect us and what stories do we wish to leave for future generations? Together, we will write to bear witness to our own lives and honor the legacies we carry.
Through a combination of writing prompts, reading excerpts, and group discussions, participants will dive deep into themes of survival, family, and love, creating space to reflect, write, and share. This workshop will help participants not only write their stories but also frame them in ways that honor their complexity and power.
Class I: Unearthing Inherited Memories
Monday, October 7, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Participants will start writing a memoir based on an inherited family story. The series begins with discussing the role of inherited memory in storytelling, using writing prompts to reflect on family or cultural memories and how they shape identity.
Class II: Confronting Imposed Stories
Monday, October 21, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Participants will develop a narrative to reclaim control of difficult or imposed memories forced upon them by society, history, or circumstance.
Class III: Stories of Survival, Family, and Love
Monday, October 28, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The workshop focuses on creating personal essays highlighting survival, love, and the legacy participants wish to pass on. It will explore stories of survival, family, and love and encourage reflection on resilience.
Class IV: Writing the Memoir of the Future
Monday, November 4, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Participants will explore how their memoirs can shape the future and will be encouraged to write about the story they want to be remembered for.
