Ten Titles for the Memoir

 Writing a memoir is proving difficult but rewarding. With 80,000 words down, I'm nearly there with the first draft. Also, as it's my weekend to blog lightly, I've chosen a Memoir Card, which reads:

Ten alternative titles for your memoir. 

I will say that I've fictionalised my memoir, but about 90 percent if it is true, mainly because I can't get in contact with a lot of people and I'm not really wanting to be sued for libel, not that anybody's getting short shrift in it. I'm just better with fiction. It's a safe space. It was also 30 years ago and the memoir looks at my time in England. 

And there is one alternative title:

Short Shrift

It's currently being worked on under the title of The Work Husband. I've inserted another character and giving their perspective on things. At the moment, I need them there for narrative drive. 

Hiding in Plain Sight has always been an option for a title as the memoir looks at my time living illegally in London for a number of years. 

I'm Not What I Seem could be another title. Living a lie in a convincing fashion is hard at the best of times you're always having to tell a story. 

Finding Home rings true. I still think of England as my spiritual home and every time I return, it feels like I am returning to the place I truly belong. 

Don't Try This at Home could be a title for the memoir. I am not advocating living in a country for a number of years without a visa. It was a different time with more lenient paperwork requirements. You'd never get away with it now, well not unless you wanted to get stuck in immigration detention. 

The View from Over the Shoulder rings a few bells. Because along with being illegal, you do have to keep one eye on who's behind you. And not get into trouble. 

Keeping the Story Straight could work. Living a lie for a number of years, you have to keep a track of your lies. Keep it simple was my way of doing things. Thankfully, it worked. You can read about it if I ever get this thing finished. 

Truths about an Active Liar is a variation on the theme above.

And lastly, and only because I've renamed myself as a character, I'll go with Et in Arcadia Ego. Yes, I know it's a bit highbrow, and quoting Virgil is a bit twee, but it sort of suits, as I too, once lived in Arcadia. 

Would love to know what you think. 

Today's song: