Larry Smith brings Six-Word Memoirs to LBI

If you have ever wanted to write your own memoir but have never had enough words to transcribe it, then you should meet Larry Smith. He is the award-winning author, publisher and editor of SMITH Magazine, who created the Six-Word Memoir Project. The venture launched in November 2006 and challenged online participants to tell their life story in just six words. Since then, it has become a national sensation and a bestselling book series, featuring the intimate lives of the people around us, young and old.

Photo Supplied by Larry Smith
Smith poses for a picture in his office,
sporting a six-word memoir shirt.

Smith will visit the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences, located at 120 Long Beach Blvd. in Loveladies, on Wednesday, Aug. 8. From 6 to 8 p.m., he will discuss the inspiration and the journey behind the project, before passing on the microphone and asking the audience to share their own six-word tales during the “six-word slam.” The autobiographies may range in topic anywhere from life and love to war and food.

“I first discovered (Smith) because I was a fan of the Six-Word series,” said Kristy Redford, the Foundation’s public programs and membership coordinator. “So I contacted him directly to see if he would be interested in partnering with the Foundation. His first interest was in doing something with the kids,” she added.

In response to Smith’s request, the Foundation partnered with the Stafford Intermediate School’s sixth-grade class. Participating students were asked to create their own Six-Word Memoir Project, based on their experiences throughout the school year. Their corresponding artwork will be on display at the event.

For more information about Larry Smith and the Six-Word Memoir Project, visit “the vibrant community of storytellers” at smithmag.net. The virtual forum is a place where people can find inspiration for their narratives, create their own stories and share them with others.

To register for the free event at the Foundation, call 609-494-1241, or send an e-mail to office@lbifoundation.org.


This article was published in The SandPaper.