Author Takes a Walk Down Memoir Lane at Library

Whether it's a diary, scrapbook or photo, most people have a cherished personal item that connects to their past. Nostalgia has even crossed over into literature, creating the non-fiction genre: the memoir.

This fondness for recollection is what Louis Alexander, author of "Echoes from a Small Country Town," addressed during a special lecture on writing a personal memoir Friday morning at the Caldwell Public Library.

"The memoir is a popular literary genre, and rightfully so." Alexander said. "A memoir is a nostalgic look back in time. It adds to the richness of life."

Alexander's lecture was part of the Feel Good Friday monthly series as part of the Caldwell Lifelong Involvement for Vital Elders program. Caldwell LIVE is a federal demonstration program designed to keep older adults active in the community. 

Alexander, a retired New Jersey teacher and principal, recently self-published "Echoes from a Small Country Town," an account of his childhood in upstate New York.

Alexander, who was once the principal of Hanover Park High School, is now an adjunct professor at Rutgers, Seton Hall and Farleigh Dickinson universities.

In his lecture, Alexander discussed his memoir and addressed the writing process behind his book.

Wanting to leave a legacy for his children and grandchildren, Alexander decided to write the memoir to provide them an account of his childhood years.

Alexander grew up in Hague, N.Y., during the '30s and '40s. In this small town near Lake George, his parents managed a general store, gas station and cabin resort. 

Alexander's father, in particular, influenced his decision to write the memoir.

Alexander's father was born in North Carolina. He joined the Marine Corps at age 16 and spent time stationed in China and Japan. He served from 1906 to 1926 before moving to New York City. The family eventually relocated upstate.

Alexander enjoyed hearing stories about his father's life, but never recorded them. Regretting this, Alexander had further motivation to write the memoir.

Alexander also wanted to create something that people across America, who were raised in small towns like his, could relate to.

"We sometimes forget that the U.S. didn't become an urban center until the 20th century," Alexander said.

Alexander encouraged the audience to record their own memories, focusing on one particular period in their life they remember vividly. 

"Words are power," Alexander said, "and people are basically nostalgic."

The Caldwell LIVE program continues next month with Managing Your Medications: Do's and Don'ts at the Caldwell Public Library on Sept. 28, from 10 to 11 a.m.