The seven big stories in life in memoir

What are the key themes for a life story? Many of us wrestle with the same issue. It boils down to seven basic plots in our memoir and life story writing.

SEVEN STORIES OF THE WORLD

The idea of the “seven basic plots” or “seven stories of the world” comes from narrative theory – particularly popularised by Christopher Booker in his book The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories. These universal plots appear across cultures and eras, because they reflect deep psychological and emotional patterns in the human experience.

Have a look and see which theme, or themes, resonate with your life.

WHAT ARE THE SEVEN BASIC PLOTS?

1. Overcoming the monster
   A hero faces a great evil or fearsome challenge and defeats it.
   Examples include David and Goliath and the movie Jaws.
   In your memoir: Battling cancer, escaping an abusive relationship, confronting addiction.
2. Rags to riches
   The protagonist begins in humble circumstances and rises to greatness or success.
   Examples include the fairytale Cinderella, and Oprah Winfrey’s life.
   In your memoir: A personal journey of transformation – from poverty, obscurity, or trauma to achievement or inner fulfilment.
3. The quest
   A group (or individual) sets out to achieve a goal, facing obstacles and growing along the way.
   Examples include The Lord of the Rings, and Nelson Mandela’s life journey.
   In your memoir: A pilgrimage, a search for meaning, justice, or healing – often physical and spiritual.
4. Voyage and return
   The protagonist enters a strange world, faces trials, and returns home wiser.
   Examples include Alice in Wonderland and The Odyssey.
   In your memoir: Emigration, a near-death experience, mental illness, or a spiritual awakening – a temporary departure from “normal life” and the lessons it brings.
5. Comedy
   Not necessarily humorous, but a tale of confusion and misunderstandings that leads to a joyful resolution.
   Famous examples include Shakespeare’s comedies.
   In your memoir: Family dramas, love triangles, or chaotic periods that eventually resolve into peace or clarity.
6. Tragedy
   A story of downfall due to a fatal flaw or fate.
   Examples include Macbeth, and Amy Winehouse’s life story.
   In your memoir: A loved one’s demise, a life derailed – told with reflection, not glorification. Tragedy in memoir helps us make meaning from suffering.
7. Rebirth
   The protagonist undergoes a transformation or awakening, often after a dark period.
   Examples include A Christmas Carol, and stories of recovery or salvation.
   In your memoir: Redemption stories – a second chance, faith renewal, midlife transformation, or healing after loss.

DO THESE STORIES FORM PART OF A LIFE STORY OR MEMOIR?

Yes, absolutely. While one person’s life might echo several of these plots, most memoirs or life stories naturally centre around one or two dominant storylines. Recognising which of the seven stories best fits a particular chapter or phase can help shape the memoir’s arc and emotional truth.

For instance:

• A memoir of surviving apartheid may draw on Overcoming the Monster.
• A coming-of-age journey from a small town to becoming an artist may follow Rags to Riches and The Quest.
• A personal crisis and recovery can reflect Rebirth or Voyage and Return.

CONNECT PERSONAL EXPERIENCE TO UNIVERSAL HUMAN THEMES

The seven big stories in life forms the basis of your theme choice in your memoir.  When you recognise and acknowledge these themes, it gives you focus and a starting point for your writing journey.

Your personal struggles and experiences can become a how-to book for others!

Contact us at Koorsboomstories to start your writing journey.