Memoirs of the Soul:
Writing your Spiritual Autobiography

by Nan Phifer
www.memoirworkshops.com
WalkingStick Press. Cincinnati: WalkingStick Press, 2002.

Reviewed by Patrice Fagnant-MacArthur

Memoirs of the Soul: Writing your Spiritual Autobiography by Nan Phifer is for anyone who has ever wanted to explore her deepest memories and feelings through the act of writing. Phifer defines spiritual as "your inner life, the part of yourself at your vital core and the animating force within you." She guides the reader step-by-step through the process of delving into one's heart on paper, encouraging honesty and the act of writing much more than any grammatical form. She helps the memoirist become attuned to the senses, taking in the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and textures entrenched in our memories and in the world at present. Topics such as significant events, changes beyond one's control, disappointments, accomplishments, and moments of peace become the starting points for writing. She also encourages reflection on one's relationship with God and on dreams and visions.

Memoirs of the Soul offers inspiration for self-reflection, whether one currently has the time to write or not. Phifer also offers suggestions on how this book can be used by one person, partners in writing, or in a group workshop setting.

© Spiritual Woman Press, 2005. All rights reserved.