The Offutt Guide to Literary Terms

memoir: From the Latin memoria, meaning “memory,” a popular form in which the writer remembers entire passages of dialogue from the past, with the ultimate goal of blaming the writer’s parents for his current psychological challenges.

short story: An essay written to conceal the truth and protect the writer’s family.

chick lit: A patriarchal term of oppression for heterosexual female writing; also, a marketing means to phenomenal readership and prominent bookstore space.

pop culture essay: An essay written by someone who prefers to shop or watch television.

Excerpts of an excerpt in Harpers. 

Written by Chris Offut.