Memoir vs autobiography

Memoir vs autobiography — while both genres share similarities, memoirs and autobiographies, as non-fiction works, have some key differences in focus, scope and intent.

Memoirs often focus on specific themes or periods of an individual’s life, providing a personal and intimate perspective, while autobiographies aim to present a comprehensive and objective account of an individual’s entire life.
This article will explore the similarities and differences between memoirs and autobiographies, with examples of best-selling works from each genre.

Moreover, it will discuss how to prepare a memoir or autobiography manuscript for publication.

What is a memoir?

A memoir is a literary genre that involves an author’s reminiscences, experiences and reflections on specific aspects of their own life.

Unlike an autobiography, which typically covers an entire life, a memoir often focuses on a particular period, theme or series of events. Memoirs are subjective and are written in the first person