Writing Guide

DePaul University's Big Shoulders Books published I Remember: Chicago Veterans of War in September 2015. The book featured memories of Chicago veterans from every modern war. We would like to continue to collect and feature new Chicago veterans' memories on the Big Shoulder's website. You do not need to be a "writer" to participate! If you are interested follow the writing guide below, then fill out the form on the right to send your submission.

What to write

Each memory should begin with "I remember." You can submit any number of "I remember" statements. And your statements can be a variety of lengths, from one sentence to one page long.

Your memories can be about any aspect of your military service: from combat to coming home and everything in-between. However, if you would like some guidance, your memories could focus on the following themes:

  • Camaraderie

  • Sacrifice

  • Violence

  • Peacefulness

  • Happiness

  • Change

  • Fears and Comforts

  • Superstitions

  • Rituals

  • Dreams

  • Daydreams

  • Nature

How to write

When possible, "show" the reader your memories by using imagery: sight, sound, taste, touch, smell. 

Be specific and use as much detail as possible. You can sound casual, conversational, and use slang.

Be frank, utterly honest, uncensored.

Follow the links bellow to find examples of other veterans' memories from the Continuation Project, or to order a free copy of the book.

» The I Remember: Continuation Project
» Order I Remember: Chicago Veterans of War

Next steps

Fill out the form on the right to provide us with your contact information. Afterwards, you will be asked to fill out a digital consent form and will be given an email address to submit your contribution to the project.