Life Writing. Contemporary Autobiography, Biography, and Travel Writing. Proceedings of a Symposium Held by the Department of American Culture and Literature Halic University, Istanbul, 19-21 April 2006

This collection presents insights from a 2006 symposium on life writing, exploring genres like autobiography and memoir. Life Writing offers a comprehensive look at these literary forms.

The proceedings from the 2006 symposium titled Life Writing. Contemporary Autobiography, Biography, and Travel Writing showcase a variety of scholarly contributions that delve into the intricate relationship between life writing and modern literature. Organized by the Department of American Culture and Literature at Halic University in Istanbul, the event brought together prominent voices in the field to explore the theoretical and practical aspects of autobiography, memoir, and travel writing. The discussions ranged from genre history to the impact of blogging, highlighting how these forms of writing evolve in contemporary contexts.

A significant portion of the contributions focuses on comprehensive theoretical frameworks, addressing genre history and narration techniques. Esteemed scholars like Nazan Aksoy and Manfred Pfister provide insights into the typology of life writing, while others, such as Wendy Ryden, examine therapeutic narratives. This exploration of genre not only enhances our understanding of life writing but also illustrates its relevance in today's literary landscape.

In addition to theoretical discussions, the proceedings also spotlight individual authors and artists, analyzing their contributions to the field. Figures such as Samuel Beckett and Orhan Pamuk are examined alongside lesser-known voices, emphasizing the diverse tapestry of life writing. The symposium's proceedings serve as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the intersections of personal narrative and cultural expression, making Life Writing an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts alike.