The article exploits the theoretical potential of the trajectory idea and proposes the concept of trajectory of unemployment. It also draws attention to the potential of memoirs as research material. The analysis is based on personal documents collected as a result of the competitions for memoirs of the unemployed held in Poland in 1931, 2000 and 2017. The data are examined with the use of the biographical method, the analysis is facilitated with MAXQDA qualitative analysis tools. We define trajectory as unfolding of a phenomenon and its evolution overtime, above all under the strong influence of external structures and mechanisms that depend on an individual’s agency to a limited degree. In the narrower sense, we treat trajectory as a sequence of changes in human life, determining transformations in status or position. We begin with the three-step logic of a trajectory (fall, stand-by and success) in order to indicate the „intermediary” trajectory types. We suggest that the two variables are decisive in locating individuals on trajectories: status and related turning points, and Bourdieu’s capitals.