It's Complicated: Grief Portrayal in Memoir

Introduction

This PhD thesis by Kelly Shorrocks from the University of Gloucestershire explores the complex ways grief is portrayed in contemporary memoir. It examines how memoirists navigate themes of death, loss, and the grieving process, often challenging traditional models.

Key Themes & Findings

• Analysis of literary trends in memoir, particularly concerning bereavement.
• Critique of the Kübler-Ross five stages of grief model and its limitations.
• Exploration of how memoir can offer nuanced and realistic portrayals of grief, including conflict and complex relationships.

Methodology & Creative Work

The thesis utilizes a practice-based methodology, incorporating the author's own creative work, "I Cannot Save You," to demonstrate how literary devices can challenge prescribed grief narratives and provide deeper insights into personal experiences of loss.