a story my grandmother told me narrative essay

A story my grandmother told me

I remember a hilarious story my grandmother once told me. About the time her friends came over for an evening of ghostly tales. Mavis, Angie, Chrystal and Anne loved telling spooky stories and dredging up the creepiest anecdotes to while away the dreary winter nights.

It was great fun, my grandmother recounted, as they sat around the fireplace. On this particular night, it seemed that Chrystal had a few hair-raising stories up her sleeve. She had everyone scared by the time the evening came to an end.

As usual, grandma offered to walk her friends halfway home, especially since they dreaded the thought of passing through the graveyard, alone. Halfway through the graveyard, Mavis suddenly shrieked and pointed, white-faced, in the direction of what looked like a pale ghostly figure, floating in mid-air amidst some funny-freaky sounds. Since everyone was already jumpy they immediately assumed that it had to be a ghost for sure. Each one turned around and ran in all directions to hide behind the bushes. An eerie silence filled the air for some time as each one hid away; scared of what was out there.

Then the laughter came!

It was grandma, who had bravely peeked out from behind her little bush, to have a better look at the pale creature. Only then she realised that it was no ghost. The wind had picked up a white sheet and draped it perfectly over one of the taller tombstones. The flapping of the cloth made it seem like a floating object and the freaky sounds was only the wind sneaking through the highest trees and surrounding buildings.

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How to write a narrative essay | Example & tips

How to Write a Narrative Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A narrative essay tells a story. In most cases, this is a story about a personal experience you had. This type of essay , along with the descriptive essay , allows you to get personal and creative, unlike most academic writing .

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What is a narrative essay for, choosing a topic, interactive example of a narrative essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about narrative essays.

When assigned a narrative essay, you might find yourself wondering: Why does my teacher want to hear this story? Topics for narrative essays can range from the important to the trivial. Usually the point is not so much the story itself, but the way you tell it.

A narrative essay is a way of testing your ability to tell a story in a clear and interesting way. You’re expected to think about where your story begins and ends, and how to convey it with eye-catching language and a satisfying pace.

These skills are quite different from those needed for formal academic writing. For instance, in a narrative essay the use of the first person (“I”) is encouraged, as is the use of figurative language, dialogue, and suspense.

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Narrative essay assignments vary widely in the amount of direction you’re given about your topic. You may be assigned quite a specific topic or choice of topics to work with.

Write a story about your first day of school.
Write a story about your favorite holiday destination.

You may also be given prompts that leave you a much wider choice of topic.

Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself.
Write about an achievement you are proud of. What did you accomplish, and how?

In these cases, you might have to think harder to decide what story you want to tell. The best kind of story for a narrative essay is one you can use to talk about a particular theme or lesson, or that takes a surprising turn somewhere along the way.

For example, a trip where everything went according to plan makes for a less interesting story than one where something unexpected happened that you then had to respond to. Choose an experience that might surprise the reader or teach them something.

Narrative essays in college applications

When applying for college , you might be asked to write a narrative essay that expresses something about your personal qualities.

For example, this application prompt from Common App requires you to respond with a narrative essay.

In this context, choose a story that is not only interesting but also expresses the qualities the prompt is looking for—here, resilience and the ability to learn from failure—and frame the story in a way that emphasizes these qualities.

An example of a short narrative essay, responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how the structure works.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

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If you’re not given much guidance on what your narrative essay should be about, consider the context and scope of the assignment. What kind of story is relevant, interesting, and possible to tell within the word count?

The best kind of story for a narrative essay is one you can use to reflect on a particular theme or lesson, or that takes a surprising turn somewhere along the way.

Don’t worry too much if your topic seems unoriginal. The point of a narrative essay is how you tell the story and the point you make with it, not the subject of the story itself.

Narrative essays are usually assigned as writing exercises at high school or in university composition classes. They may also form part of a university application.

When you are prompted to tell a story about your own life or experiences, a narrative essay is usually the right response.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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The Ultimate Narrative Essay Guide for Beginners

A narrative essay tells a story in chronological order, with an introduction that introduces the characters and sets the scene. Then a series of events leads to a climax or turning point, and finally a resolution or reflection on the experience.

Speaking of which, are you in sixes and sevens about narrative essays? Don’t worry this ultimate expert guide will wipe out all your doubts. So let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Everything You Need to Know About Narrative Essay

What is a narrative essay.

When you go through a narrative essay definition, you would know that a narrative essay purpose is to tell a story. It’s all about sharing an experience or event and is different from other types of essays because it’s more focused on how the event made you feel or what you learned from it, rather than just presenting facts or an argument. Let’s explore more details on this interesting write-up and get to know how to write a narrative essay.

Elements of a Narrative Essay

Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of a narrative essay:

A narrative essay has a beginning, middle, and end. It builds up tension and excitement and then wraps things up in a neat package.

Real people, including the writer, often feature in personal narratives. Details of the characters and their thoughts, feelings, and actions can help readers to relate to the tale.

It’s really important to know when and where something happened so we can get a good idea of the context. Going into detail about what it looks like helps the reader to really feel like they’re part of the story.

Conflict or Challenge

A story in a narrative essay usually involves some kind of conflict or challenge that moves the plot along. It could be something inside the character, like a personal battle, or something from outside, like an issue they have to face in the world.

Theme or Message

A narrative essay isn’t just about recounting an event – it’s about showing the impact it had on you and what you took away from it. It’s an opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings about the experience, and how it changed your outlook.

Emotional Impact

The author is trying to make the story they’re telling relatable, engaging, and memorable by using language and storytelling to evoke feelings in whoever’s reading it.

Narrative essays let writers have a blast telling stories about their own lives. It’s an opportunity to share insights and impart wisdom, or just have some fun with the reader. Descriptive language, sensory details, dialogue, and a great narrative voice are all essentials for making the story come alive.

The Purpose of a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is more than just a story – it’s a way to share a meaningful, engaging, and relatable experience with the reader. Includes:

Sharing Personal Experience

Narrative essays are a great way for writers to share their personal experiences, feelings, thoughts, and reflections. It’s an opportunity to connect with readers and make them feel something.

Entertainment and Engagement

The essay attempts to keep the reader interested by using descriptive language, storytelling elements, and a powerful voice. It attempts to pull them in and make them feel involved by creating suspense, mystery, or an emotional connection.

Conveying a Message or Insight

Narrative essays are more than just a story – they aim to teach you something. They usually have a moral lesson, a new understanding, or a realization about life that the author gained from the experience.

Building Empathy and Understanding

By telling their stories, people can give others insight into different perspectives, feelings, and situations. Sharing these tales can create compassion in the reader and help broaden their knowledge of different life experiences.

Inspiration and Motivation

Stories about personal struggles, successes, and transformations can be really encouraging to people who are going through similar situations. It can provide them with hope and guidance, and let them know that they’re not alone.

Reflecting on Life’s Significance

These essays usually make you think about the importance of certain moments in life or the impact of certain experiences. They make you look deep within yourself and ponder on the things you learned or how you changed because of those events.

Demonstrating Writing Skills

Coming up with a gripping narrative essay takes serious writing chops, like vivid descriptions, powerful language, timing, and organization. It’s an opportunity for writers to show off their story-telling abilities.

Preserving Personal History

Sometimes narrative essays are used to record experiences and special moments that have an emotional resonance. They can be used to preserve individual memories or for future generations to look back on.

Cultural and Societal Exploration

Personal stories can look at cultural or social aspects, giving us an insight into customs, opinions, or social interactions seen through someone’s own experience.

Format of a Narrative Essay

Narrative essays are quite flexible in terms of format, which allows the writer to tell a story in a creative and compelling way. Here’s a quick breakdown of the narrative essay format, along with some examples:

Introduction

Set the scene and introduce the story.

Engage the reader and establish the tone of the narrative.

Hook: Start with a captivating opening line to grab the reader’s attention. For instance:

Example: “The scorching sun beat down on us as we trekked through the desert, our water supply dwindling.”

Background Information: Provide necessary context or background without giving away the entire story.

Example: “It was the summer of 2015 when I embarked on a life-changing journey to…”

Thesis Statement or Narrative Purpose

Present the main idea or the central message of the essay.

Offer a glimpse of what the reader can expect from the narrative.

Thesis Statement: This isn’t as rigid as in other essays but can be a sentence summarizing the essence of the story.

Example: “Little did I know, that seemingly ordinary hike would teach me invaluable lessons about resilience and friendship.”

Body Paragraphs

Present the sequence of events in chronological order.

Develop characters, setting, conflict, and resolution.

Story Progression : Describe events in the order they occurred, focusing on details that evoke emotions and create vivid imagery.

Example : Detail the trek through the desert, the challenges faced, interactions with fellow hikers, and the pivotal moments.

Character Development : Introduce characters and their roles in the story. Show their emotions, thoughts, and actions.

Example : Describe how each character reacted to the dwindling water supply and supported each other through adversity.

Dialogue and Interactions : Use dialogue to bring the story to life and reveal character personalities.

Example : “Sarah handed me her last bottle of water, saying, ‘We’re in this together.'”

Reach the peak of the story, the moment of highest tension or significance.

Turning Point: Highlight the most crucial moment or realization in the narrative.

Example: “As the sun dipped below the horizon and hope seemed lost, a distant sound caught our attention—the rescue team’s helicopters.”

Provide closure to the story.

Reflect on the significance of the experience and its impact.

Reflection : Summarize the key lessons learned or insights gained from the experience.

Example : “That hike taught me the true meaning of resilience and the invaluable support of friendship in challenging times.”

Closing Thought : End with a memorable line that reinforces the narrative’s message or leaves a lasting impression.

Example : “As we boarded the helicopters, I knew this adventure would forever be etched in my heart.”

Example Summary:

Imagine a narrative about surviving a challenging hike through the desert, emphasizing the bonds formed and lessons learned. The narrative essay structure might look like starting with an engaging scene, narrating the hardships faced, showcasing the characters’ resilience, and culminating in a powerful realization about friendship and endurance.

Different Types of Narrative Essays

There are a bunch of different types of narrative essays – each one focuses on different elements of storytelling and has its own purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the narrative essay types and what they mean.

Personal Narrative

Description : Tells a personal story or experience from the writer’s life.

Purpose: Reflects on personal growth, lessons learned, or significant moments.

Example of Narrative Essay Types:

Topic : “The Day I Conquered My Fear of Public Speaking”

Focus: Details the experience, emotions, and eventual triumph over a fear of public speaking during a pivotal event.

Descriptive Narrative

Description : Emphasizes vivid details and sensory imagery.

Purpose : Creates a sensory experience, painting a vivid picture for the reader.

Topic : “A Walk Through the Enchanted Forest”

Focus : Paints a detailed picture of the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings experienced during a walk through a mystical forest.

Autobiographical Narrative

Description: Chronicles significant events or moments from the writer’s life.

Purpose: Provides insights into the writer’s life, experiences, and growth.

Topic: “Lessons from My Childhood: How My Grandmother Shaped Who I Am”

Focus: Explores pivotal moments and lessons learned from interactions with a significant family member.

Experiential Narrative

Description: Relays experiences beyond the writer’s personal life.

Purpose: Shares experiences, travels, or events from a broader perspective.

Topic: “Volunteering in a Remote Village: A Journey of Empathy”

Focus: Chronicles the writer’s volunteering experience, highlighting interactions with a community and personal growth.

Literary Narrative

Description: Incorporates literary elements like symbolism, allegory, or thematic explorations.

Purpose: Uses storytelling for deeper explorations of themes or concepts.

Topic: “The Symbolism of the Red Door: A Journey Through Change”

Focus: Uses a red door as a symbol, exploring its significance in the narrator’s life and the theme of transition.

Historical Narrative

Description: Recounts historical events or periods through a personal lens.

Purpose: Presents history through personal experiences or perspectives.

Topic: “A Grandfather’s Tales: Living Through the Great Depression”

Focus: Shares personal stories from a family member who lived through a historical era, offering insights into that period.

Digital or Multimedia Narrative

Description: Incorporates multimedia elements like images, videos, or audio to tell a story.

Purpose: Explores storytelling through various digital platforms or formats.

Topic: “A Travel Diary: Exploring Europe Through Vlogs”

Focus: Combines video clips, photos, and personal narration to document a travel experience.

How to Choose a Topic for Your Narrative Essay?

Selecting a compelling topic for your narrative essay is crucial as it sets the stage for your storytelling. Choosing a boring topic is one of the narrative essay mistakes to avoid . Here’s a detailed guide on how to choose the right topic:

Reflect on Personal Experiences

Significant Moments:

Moments that had a profound impact on your life or shaped your perspective.

Example: A moment of triumph, overcoming a fear, a life-changing decision, or an unforgettable experience.

Emotional Resonance:

Events that evoke strong emotions or feelings.

Example: Joy, fear, sadness, excitement, or moments of realization.

Lessons Learned:

Experiences that taught you valuable lessons or brought about personal growth.

Example: Challenges that led to personal development, shifts in mindset, or newfound insights.

Explore Unique Perspectives

Uncommon Experiences:

Unique or unconventional experiences that might captivate the reader’s interest.

Example: Unusual travels, interactions with different cultures, or uncommon hobbies.

Different Points of View:

Stories from others’ perspectives that impacted you deeply.

Example: A family member’s story, a friend’s experience, or a historical event from a personal lens.

Focus on Specific Themes or Concepts

Themes or Concepts of Interest:

Themes or ideas you want to explore through storytelling.

Example: Friendship, resilience, identity, cultural diversity, or personal transformation.

Symbolism or Metaphor:

Using symbols or metaphors as the core of your narrative.

Example: Exploring the symbolism of an object or a place in relation to a broader theme.

Consider Your Audience and Purpose

Relevance to Your Audience:

Topics that resonate with your audience’s interests or experiences.

Example: Choose a relatable theme or experience that your readers might connect with emotionally.

Impact or Message:

What message or insight do you want to convey through your story?

Example: Choose a topic that aligns with the message or lesson you aim to impart to your readers.

Brainstorm and Evaluate Ideas

Free Writing or Mind Mapping:

Process: Write down all potential ideas without filtering. Mind maps or free-writing exercises can help generate diverse ideas.

Evaluate Feasibility:

The depth of the story, the availability of vivid details, and your personal connection to the topic.

Imagine you’re considering topics for a narrative essay. You reflect on your experiences and decide to explore the topic of “Overcoming Stage Fright: How a School Play Changed My Perspective.” This topic resonates because it involves a significant challenge you faced and the personal growth it brought about.

Narrative Essay Topics

50 easy narrative essay topics.

Learning to Ride a Bike
My First Day of School
A Surprise Birthday Party
The Day I Got Lost
Visiting a Haunted House
An Encounter with a Wild Animal
My Favorite Childhood Toy
The Best Vacation I Ever Had
An Unforgettable Family Gathering
Conquering a Fear of Heights
A Special Gift I Received
Moving to a New City
The Most Memorable Meal
Getting Caught in a Rainstorm
An Act of Kindness I Witnessed
The First Time I Cooked a Meal
My Experience with a New Hobby
The Day I Met My Best Friend
A Hike in the Mountains
Learning a New Language
An Embarrassing Moment
Dealing with a Bully
My First Job Interview
A Sporting Event I Attended
The Scariest Dream I Had
Helping a Stranger
The Joy of Achieving a Goal
A Road Trip Adventure
Overcoming a Personal Challenge
The Significance of a Family Tradition
An Unusual Pet I Owned
A Misunderstanding with a Friend
Exploring an Abandoned Building
My Favorite Book and Why
The Impact of a Role Model
A Cultural Celebration I Participated In
A Valuable Lesson from a Teacher
A Trip to the Zoo
An Unplanned Adventure
Volunteering Experience
A Moment of Forgiveness
A Decision I Regretted
A Special Talent I Have
The Importance of Family Traditions
The Thrill of Performing on Stage
A Moment of Sudden Inspiration
The Meaning of Home
Learning to Play a Musical Instrument
A Childhood Memory at the Park
Witnessing a Beautiful Sunset

Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

Discovering a New Passion
Overcoming Academic Challenges
Navigating Cultural Differences
Embracing Independence: Moving Away from Home
Exploring Career Aspirations
Coping with Stress in College
The Impact of a Mentor in My Life
Balancing Work and Studies
Facing a Fear of Public Speaking
Exploring a Semester Abroad
The Evolution of My Study Habits
Volunteering Experience That Changed My Perspective
The Role of Technology in Education
Finding Balance: Social Life vs. Academics
Learning a New Skill Outside the Classroom
Reflecting on Freshman Year Challenges
The Joys and Struggles of Group Projects
My Experience with Internship or Work Placement
Challenges of Time Management in College
Redefining Success Beyond Grades
The Influence of Literature on My Thinking
The Impact of Social Media on College Life
Overcoming Procrastination
Lessons from a Leadership Role
Exploring Diversity on Campus
Exploring Passion for Environmental Conservation
An Eye-Opening Course That Changed My Perspective
Living with Roommates: Challenges and Lessons
The Significance of Extracurricular Activities
The Influence of a Professor on My Academic Journey
Discussing Mental Health in College
The Evolution of My Career Goals
Confronting Personal Biases Through Education
The Experience of Attending a Conference or Symposium
Challenges Faced by Non-Native English Speakers in College
The Impact of Traveling During Breaks
Exploring Identity: Cultural or Personal
The Impact of Music or Art on My Life
Addressing Diversity in the Classroom
Exploring Entrepreneurial Ambitions
My Experience with Research Projects
Overcoming Impostor Syndrome in College
The Importance of Networking in College
Finding Resilience During Tough Times
The Impact of Global Issues on Local Perspectives
The Influence of Family Expectations on Education
Lessons from a Part-Time Job
Exploring the College Sports Culture
The Role of Technology in Modern Education
The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Education

Narrative Essay Comparison

Narrative essay vs. descriptive essay.

Here’s our first narrative essay comparison! While both narrative and descriptive essays focus on vividly portraying a subject or an event, they differ in their primary objectives and approaches. Now, let’s delve into the nuances of comparison on narrative essays.

Narrative Essay:

Storytelling: Focuses on narrating a personal experience or event.

Chronological Order: Follows a structured timeline of events to tell a story.

Message or Lesson: Often includes a central message, moral, or lesson learned from the experience.

Engagement: Aims to captivate the reader through a compelling storyline and character development.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s point of view, using “I” and expressing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Emphasizes a plot with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Character Development: Focuses on describing characters, their interactions, emotions, and growth.

Conflict or Challenge: Usually involves a central conflict or challenge that drives the narrative forward.

Dialogue: Incorporates conversations to bring characters and their interactions to life.

Reflection: Concludes with reflection or insight gained from the experience.

Descriptive Essay:

Vivid Description: Aims to vividly depict a person, place, object, or event.

Imagery and Details: Focuses on sensory details to create a vivid image in the reader’s mind.

Emotion through Description: Uses descriptive language to evoke emotions and engage the reader’s senses.

Painting a Picture: Creates a sensory-rich description allowing the reader to visualize the subject.

Imagery and Sensory Details: Focuses on providing rich sensory descriptions, using vivid language and adjectives.

Point of Focus: Concentrates on describing a specific subject or scene in detail.

Spatial Organization: Often employs spatial organization to describe from one area or aspect to another.

Objective Observations: Typically avoids the use of personal opinions or emotions; instead, the focus remains on providing a detailed and objective description.

Comparison:

Focus: Narrative essays emphasize storytelling, while descriptive essays focus on vividly describing a subject or scene.

Perspective: Narrative essays are often written from a first-person perspective, while descriptive essays may use a more objective viewpoint.

Purpose: Narrative essays aim to convey a message or lesson through a story, while descriptive essays aim to paint a detailed picture for the reader without necessarily conveying a specific message.

Narrative Essay vs. Argumentative Essay

The narrative essay and the argumentative essay serve distinct purposes and employ different approaches:

Engagement and Emotion: Aims to captivate the reader through a compelling story.

Reflective: Often includes reflection on the significance of the experience or lessons learned.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s point of view, sharing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Emphasizes a storyline with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Message or Lesson: Conveys a central message, moral, or insight derived from the experience.

Argumentative Essay:

Persuasion and Argumentation: Aims to persuade the reader to adopt the writer’s viewpoint on a specific topic.

Logical Reasoning: Presents evidence, facts, and reasoning to support a particular argument or stance.

Debate and Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and counter them with evidence and reasoning.

Thesis Statement: Includes a clear thesis statement that outlines the writer’s position on the topic.

Thesis and Evidence: Starts with a strong thesis statement and supports it with factual evidence, statistics, expert opinions, or logical reasoning.

Counterarguments: Addresses opposing viewpoints and provides rebuttals with evidence.

Logical Structure: Follows a logical structure with an introduction, body paragraphs presenting arguments and evidence, and a conclusion reaffirming the thesis.

Formal Language: Uses formal language and avoids personal anecdotes or emotional appeals.

Objective: Argumentative essays focus on presenting a logical argument supported by evidence, while narrative essays prioritize storytelling and personal reflection.

Purpose: Argumentative essays aim to persuade and convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, while narrative essays aim to engage, entertain, and share personal experiences.

Structure: Narrative essays follow a storytelling structure with character development and plot, while argumentative essays follow a more formal, structured approach with logical arguments and evidence.

In essence, while both essays involve writing and presenting information, the narrative essay focuses on sharing a personal experience, whereas the argumentative essay aims to persuade the audience by presenting a well-supported argument.

Narrative Essay vs. Personal Essay

While there can be an overlap between narrative and personal essays, they have distinctive characteristics:

Storytelling: Emphasizes recounting a specific experience or event in a structured narrative form.

Engagement through Story: Aims to engage the reader through a compelling story with characters, plot, and a central theme or message.

Reflective: Often includes reflection on the significance of the experience and the lessons learned.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s viewpoint, expressing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Focuses on developing a storyline with a clear beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Character Development: Includes descriptions of characters, their interactions, emotions, and growth.

Central Message: Conveys a central message, moral, or insight derived from the experience.

Personal Essay:

Exploration of Ideas or Themes: Explores personal ideas, opinions, or reflections on a particular topic or subject.

Expression of Thoughts and Opinions: Expresses the writer’s thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on a specific subject matter.

Reflection and Introspection: Often involves self-reflection and introspection on personal experiences, beliefs, or values.

Varied Structure and Content: Can encompass various forms, including memoirs, personal anecdotes, or reflections on life experiences.

Flexibility in Structure: Allows for diverse structures and forms based on the writer’s intent, which could be narrative-like or more reflective.

Theme-Centric Writing: Focuses on exploring a central theme or idea, with personal anecdotes or experiences supporting and illustrating the theme.

Expressive Language: Utilizes descriptive and expressive language to convey personal perspectives, emotions, and opinions.

Focus: Narrative essays primarily focus on storytelling through a structured narrative, while personal essays encompass a broader range of personal expression, which can include storytelling but isn’t limited to it.

Structure: Narrative essays have a more structured plot development with characters and a clear sequence of events, while personal essays might adopt various structures, focusing more on personal reflection, ideas, or themes.

Intent: While both involve personal experiences, narrative essays emphasize telling a story with a message or lesson learned, while personal essays aim to explore personal thoughts, feelings, or opinions on a broader range of topics or themes.

5 Easy Steps for Writing a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is more than just telling a story. It’s also meant to engage the reader, get them thinking, and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s to amuse, motivate, teach, or reflect, these essays are a great way to communicate with your audience. This interesting narrative essay guide was all about letting you understand the narrative essay, its importance, and how can you write one.

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Why I Love My Grandmother

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My Grandmother Essay in 100, 150, 250, 300, 400 Words for Students

Here we are sharing some beautiful essays on my grandmother in 100, 150, 250, 300, 400 words. These essays are very easy to learn for any students.

In This Blog We Will Discuss

My Grandmother: Short Essay (100 Words)

We are a big family living together. My grandma is the head of the family. She is the oldest person here. We love her. My grandmother name is Rabeya Khatun and she is 78 years old. In this age, she is still strong enough and can do so many own works. My grandma is a really good woman.

She wakes up early in the morning and starts her day with prayer. She encourages us to pray more and more. She is the busiest person in our family because she takes care of all of us. She loves to spend time in the kitchen. I love my grandmother a lot.

My Grandmother: Short Essay (150 Words)

My grandmother is the eldest member of our family. She has sacrificed a lot for this family. Now she deserves respect and love from us. We all grandchildren are a fan of her. She used to spend most of her time with us. The most interesting thing about my grandma is she shares lots of amazing stories.

Especially in the night, the stories of ghosts are really scary to us. But we love to hear these stories. She is almost 80 years old, but it’s not appropriate, because she doesn’t know her birth date. She has never celebrated her birthday. But at this age, she still can move properly like other young peoples.

She is such a strong and good mentality woman. She is a caring woman and takes care of the whole family. She is like a driver who operates a big bus. We love our grandma a lot.

My Grandmother: Essay (250 Words)

Introduction:

Grandparents really love, they love their grandchild’s a lot. Today I am going to sharing my experience with my own grandma. She is an amazing woman, I have ever seen in my entire life. We, whole family and cousins, love and respect her a lot. I think elderly people like her should be respected and loved by us. This will make the families better for them.

My Grandmother:

My grandmother’s name is Sunita Mehta; she is about 75 years old. She was a school teacher at a young age. My father and uncles used to share lots of stories about her. They share how she has sacrificed a lot in her life for this family. She was an absolutely hardworking woman, who was really committed to make this family a better place. When my grandfather was struggling with his job, she came out and helped him working as a teacher. Besides this, she has done so many things for the family.

What She Does:

She is a religious woman. Most of her time, she spend doing prayer and Puja . In her leisure time, she sat with us and share lots of stories. Her stories are really addictive and that’s made us a fan of her. At this age, she still goes to the kitchen and takes care of the cooking. She was an amazing cook.

Conclusion:

My mother and aunties love my grandma a lot. They respect her and help her in all of her works. We all cousins also try loving her. She is the most amazing woman in my life.

My Grandmother: Essay (300 Words)

Most of the family, there is the eldest member. In our family, we have gone our grandma as the eldest member. She is the leader and the guide for the whole family. Before doing anything, we ask her for permission. It’s all about love and respect for her. In her time, she has done so much sacrifice for the family. Today I am going to share my experience with grandma.

The name of my grandma is Nazma Ahmed. She is about 70 years old and she is still can walk, and move properly. She is an interesting character. She is very talkative and loves to share stories with us. I and my cousins are really curious about spending time with her.

Her Daily Routine:

She wakes up early in the morning and starts her day with Morning Prayer. She is a very religious person. She encourages the whole family to pray more and more. In her this age, she still goes to the kitchen just to take care of the cooking situation. She was an amazing cook in her time. She takes her bath at 1 PM, before the noon prayer. In the afternoon, she sat with all of us and teaches us some time. She doesn’t have any major health issues yet.

How Much I Love Her:

I love her a lot. She is like my best friend. From childhood , I am spending most of my time with her. Not only, there a couple of cousins are we raising together and spending time together with her. She always loves us a lot. Even the whole family loves her.

She is the most senior person in our family and we respect her for this. She has done so many things to make this family better for us.

My Grandmother: Essay (400 Words)

Grandparents are the eldest member in every family. My grandfather is no more, but there is my grandma who is fulfilling the blank space of grandpa. Today I am going to share my love and feeling about my grandma. She is such an amazing woman I have ever seen in my entire life.

My grandma:

Her name is Ruksana Ahmed, and she is 74 years old. In this age, she is still strong enough. She can walk, and do a few little works too. At this stage of life, she still takes care of the whole family. As usual, she is the most important person in the family. Everyone values her decision and ask her before doing anything major. She is a religious woman. Most of her time, she used to spend praying. She teaches us the holy book Quran. In the time, when I was a kid, she used to teach me and a few of my cousins together. Now she doesn’t have good eyesight, but she still can read with her glasses.

Her life in a few words:

My grandma had a colorful life. My father and uncles have shared lots of stories of her. Her marriage with my grandpa has arranged so big and awesome celebration. She was the most beautiful girl in the area. Grandpa falls in love and asks her father to marry her.

Both families agreed and they got married. The most touching part of her life is, they faced some financial problems as a family. She started working as a part-time school teacher. She was really hardworking. That was really tough to maintain the whole family, lots of household works after doing teaching in the school.

But she did these successfully. Her hard work pays off and she was able to create a better place for the next generation. We love her a lot. She was a true fighter.

I and my cousins best friend:

She is my best friend. Not only I, but there also are lots of my cousins who used to spend most of the times with her. She loves us too. She never refuses us in anything. She always loves to tell us stories and teach us small lessons. She is very friendly.

After all, the whole family loves her. She has lots of contributions to this family. That’s why they never let her be down. Everyone respects her as like deities. I love my grandmother a lot too.

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Essay Samples on Grandmother

Crafting a college essay about grandmother is an invaluable opportunity to explore the profound impact she has had on your life. Grandmothers, the beloved matriarchs who have played pivotal roles in shaping our families and communities, hold a wealth of memories, experiences, and wisdom. Their unwavering love and nurturing presence create a bond that transcends generations.

How to Write an Essay About Grandmother

When approaching a grandmother essay for college, it is essential to infuse your personal narrative with heartfelt anecdotes and vivid descriptions. Begin by delving into the cherished moments you’ve shared, recounting the laughter, storytelling, and life lessons that have resonated deeply. Reflect on the values and virtues your grandmother embodies, such as resilience, compassion, or determination, and illustrate how these qualities have shaped your own character.

To make your grandmother essay truly stand out, incorporate specific details and sensory imagery that evoke a strong emotional response. Paint a vivid picture of your grandmother’s unique features — the way her eyes sparkle with wisdom, the gentle sound of her voice, or the comforting aroma that emanates from her kitchen. Share captivating anecdotes that bring her personality to life and showcase the profound impact she has had on shaping your perspective.

Furthermore, don’t forget to convey the invaluable life lessons you have gleaned from your grandmother. Whether she provided unwavering support during challenging times, offered guidance in navigating obstacles, or imparted invaluable advice, these elements will highlight the profound influence she has had on your personal growth and development.

My Grandmother's Narrative: A Tapestry of Wisdom and Affection

Within the pages of my life, one chapter stands out as a vivid tapestry woven with threads of wisdom, affection, and cherished memories. This chapter belongs to my grandmother—a remarkable woman whose presence has shaped my worldview and left an indelible mark on my heart....

Grandmother

A Tribute to a Special Person in My Life: My Grandmother

Throughout our lives, we encounter individuals who leave an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. Among them, there's always that one special person who stands out, whose presence enriches our life in countless ways. For me, that special person in my life is my...

Influential Person

Love Letter to My Grandma - to One of the Greatest Person

My dearest Grandma, Since the time I could walk, talk, remember, you were with me. I feel so overwhelmed by the pain. I can't explain the hole in my heart. Getting to be with you, for even the short time we spent together, felt like...

My Grandmother as My Role Model: Her Role in Shaping My Identity

The identities of Americans are diversified. One’s identity is made up of a person's culture, heritage, personality, and how they strive to succeed. The identity of a person is created, through the hardships faced and their history, whether it is that one is born in...

Grandparent
Someone Who Inspires Me

Precious Value Of A Gift From My Grandmother

As a child, my grandmother was someone I looked up to. I mean this less in the literal sense. Her arrivals at the front door were a cause for celebration. I would leap into her open arms as a large smile appeared across her face,...

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Observing My Great Grandmother Change

Ninety five years old. She has been though World War Two, seen the moon landing and the rise of technology. Can you imagine the life she must have had? Now she is in a wheelchair with my great-aunt caring for her. She puts a flowery...

Family Values

Life Lessons My 90-Year-Old Grandmother Taught Me

My 90-year-old grandmother (on my mom’s side) is one of the people who inspire me most with her strong personality and all. I value her opinions dearly and I also value her advice. Over the years, she has taught me innumerable lessons through her words...

The Pain of Leaving My Grandmother Behind for a Better Life

My parents left Mexico to go to the United States when I was three years old, they left me in the care of my grandmother. At the age of five, I remember waking up every morning to help my grandma make tortillas although at that...

The Life of My Grandmother and the Lessons She Taught Our Family

My grandmother, Kamrun Nessa, frequently stayed in the living room because it was where everyone in the household would spend the most time. Although my grandmother was a very quiet and peaceful individual, she enjoyed listening to all the babbling in the background while she...

Best topics on Grandmother

1. My Grandmother’s Narrative: A Tapestry of Wisdom and Affection

2. A Tribute to a Special Person in My Life: My Grandmother

3. Love Letter to My Grandma – to One of the Greatest Person

4. My Grandmother as My Role Model: Her Role in Shaping My Identity

5. Precious Value Of A Gift From My Grandmother

6. Observing My Great Grandmother Change

7. Life Lessons My 90-Year-Old Grandmother Taught Me

8. The Pain of Leaving My Grandmother Behind for a Better Life

9. The Life of My Grandmother and the Lessons She Taught Our Family

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The Death of My Grandmother and Lessons Learnt Essay

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Introduction

For many people, the death of their grandparents means the loss of a very close relative, who was given an important role in their lives. After the death of a grandmother, a person can experience many different emotions. The loss of a dear person is frightening and unsettling. Often the loss of a grandmother is the first loss in life, which only complicates the feelings experienced. Death is a natural part of life that we have to deal with sooner or later. The loss of my grandmother was the biggest tragedy that has happened to me. The main reason is the fact that she was the one who raised me to become who I am. She was closer to me than my parents because they were mostly busy at their jobs. My grandmother always accompanied me throughout my childhood.

Nonetheless, the given obstacle was a mere setback for my future success. At first, I was inclined to be pessimistic and depressed due to the fact that I did not see myself enjoying life anymore. As time passed, I began to realize that I am the only one who can and will carry on her legacy and memory because she raised me by pouring her soul into me. In addition, I started to appreciate life more because I faced the concept of death early on.

I learned many valuable things after my grandmother passed away. The best way to feel better after the death of a loved one is to indulge in pleasant memories. I tried to remember the moments when we laughed together, had fun, or other pleasant situations that we experienced with my grandmother. Also, over time, I could revise our box or album of memory, so as not to forget about all the moments experienced. I realized that if you focus on helping others, it will be easier for you to survive the loss and move on. It is also critical to support the parents and brothers during difficult moments. Some of your parents have lost their mother, and this is a terrible obstacle. I learned to recall that I love my loved ones and try to take care of them even in small endeavors, such as offering to make tea or washing the dishes. It is important to experience the joy that my grandmother lives in my memory.

Furthermore, I learned that there are several stages that each person experiencing loss goes through shock, anger, despair, and acceptance. As a rule, these stages take a year, and it is no accident that in the old traditions, the mourning for the deceased lasted as long. These experiences are individual and depend on the degree of closeness with the deceased person, on the circumstances in which he passed away. At each stage, there may be experiences that seem abnormal to people. For example, they hear the voice of a deceased person or feel his presence. They may remember the departed, dream about him, may even be angry with the deceased, or, conversely, not experience any emotion. These conditions are natural and are due to the functioning of the brain. However, it is important to know that pathological reactions to stress can occur at each stage.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that the loss of my grandmother was a major challenge that I faced in my entire life. Although it dealt irreparable damage, I am convinced that it made me much stronger as a human being both emotionally and mentally. I acquired a certain degree of peace and calmness during stressful periods because none of them can be as painful as the loss of my grandmother. In addition, I became more aware of the concept of death, which forced me to fully appreciate my time and life.

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IvyPanda. (2021, June 3). The Death of My Grandmother and Lessons Learnt. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-death-of-my-grandmother-and-lessons-learnt/

"The Death of My Grandmother and Lessons Learnt." IvyPanda , 3 June 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/the-death-of-my-grandmother-and-lessons-learnt/.

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IvyPanda . 2021. "The Death of My Grandmother and Lessons Learnt." June 3, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-death-of-my-grandmother-and-lessons-learnt/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Death of My Grandmother and Lessons Learnt." June 3, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-death-of-my-grandmother-and-lessons-learnt/.

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IvyPanda . "The Death of My Grandmother and Lessons Learnt." June 3, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-death-of-my-grandmother-and-lessons-learnt/.

Essay on My Grandmother 500+ Words

In the tapestry of our lives, family plays a central role, and my grandmother is a thread of unwavering love, wisdom, and guidance. In this essay, we will explore the extraordinary impact of “my grandmother” on my life, focusing on her nurturing care, valuable life lessons, and enduring legacy.

A Source of Unconditional Love

“My grandmother” is a constant source of love and affection. Her warm hugs, kind words, and comforting presence have created a secure foundation in my life. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, a strong emotional bond with a grandparent positively impacts a child’s emotional well-being.

Stories and Traditions

Through storytelling, “my grandmother” has shared family history and traditions, instilling a sense of heritage. These stories connect me to my roots and teach me valuable life lessons. The importance of preserving family history is emphasized by genealogy experts worldwide.

Lessons in Resilience

“My grandmother” has faced challenges in her life, and she shares her experiences with grace and resilience. These lessons in overcoming adversity have taught me the importance of perseverance and a positive attitude. According to experts at Harvard University, resilience is a key factor in achieving success and well-being.

Cooking and Bonding

In the kitchen, “my grandmother” has been my mentor, passing down treasured family recipes and culinary skills. Cooking together has strengthened our bond and created cherished memories. Studies show that shared cooking experiences enhance family connections and foster communication.

Generosity and Compassion

“My grandmother” exemplifies generosity and compassion through her actions. She volunteers at local charities, demonstrating the importance of giving back to the community. Experts in psychology affirm that acts of kindness and generosity have a positive impact on one’s mental and emotional well-being.

Valuable Life Skills

From sewing to gardening, “my grandmother” has taught me a variety of practical skills. These abilities not only enrich my life but also reflect the importance of self-sufficiency. Life skills education is recognized as essential by experts in child development.

Moral Values

“My grandmother” instills strong moral values in me, emphasizing honesty, kindness, and empathy. These values serve as my moral compass in making ethical decisions. Research conducted by the Institute for Research on Poverty highlights the positive influence of moral guidance from grandparents.

Academic Support

“My grandmother” is a dedicated supporter of my education. She helps with homework, encourages reading, and fosters a love for learning. Studies consistently show that parental involvement in education significantly enhances academic achievement.

Cultural Awareness

Through “my grandmother’s” teachings, I have gained a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage. She encourages us to embrace diversity and respect all cultures. Cultural awareness is recognized as an essential aspect of global citizenship by experts in multicultural education.

A Legacy of Love

As “my grandmother” imparts her wisdom and love, she is creating a lasting legacy. Her influence extends beyond our immediate family, touching the lives of those around us. This legacy of love is a testament to the enduring impact of grandmothers worldwide.

Conclusion of Essay on My Grandmother

In conclusion, “my grandmother” is a beacon of love, wisdom, and guidance in my life. Her nurturing care, valuable life lessons, and enduring legacy have shaped me into the person I am today. As I reflect on the profound impact she has had on my life, I am reminded of the priceless treasure she is. “My grandmother” is not just a family member; she is a source of strength and inspiration, and I am grateful for the privilege of having her in my life. Her influence will continue to shape me and future generations, making her a truly remarkable and cherished figure.

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The Main Lessons I Have Learned From My Grandmother

Category: Life
Topic: Grandmother , Grandparent

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