This study elaborates a detailed theory with which readers can approach their own and others' autobiographical writings. The theory focuses on the narrative voice and viewpoint of the autobiographer as factors. In the narratives of an autobiography proper, the voice is synecdochic to the extent that it separates itself as uniquely representative of the self. Whereas, in a memoir or reminiscence, the voice is metaphoric to the extent that it separates itself as multiple while in a confession or apology, the voice is metonymic to the extent that it connects multiple, conflicting selves. Varieties of writers from different periods are used to illustrate and enflesh the theory.