By Limor Shiponi
I’m pondering this question lately. Before you continue reading it is important to emphasize – this post is an attempt to raise an honest discussion, without excluding anyone, without passing judgment or classifying.
The word ‘storytelling’ has become common. It is used by many to describe what they do – storytellers. Who? This is a very partial list: novelists, screenplay writers, game writers, journalists. Speakers, lecturers, actors, facilitators. Therapists, counselors, coaches, knowledge management professionals. Marketers, salespersons, customer service, experience designers. Network developers, content sharing site developers, teachers, trainers and of course – storytellers. Which is a rather strange definition to write down in this post.
Anyone who has something to tell, observing the rapidly growing trend, calls her or himself – storyteller. If not the person, the interface invites you to be one.
One definition
Which I will place here, is the difference between telling a story once in a while, for some kind of purpose, and telling stories or storytelling as a core agenda. I’m speaking about the second category and still, many of those I’ve mentioned above inhabit it. Inside this habitat there are many forces pulling their way, trying to declare possession of knowledge and stick their flag at the top of the hill. Maybe in order to define storytelling the way they see it. Maybe.
Why maybe?
Is defining such a great idea? Many think the contrary. Every time such a discussion rises, many run in carrying a bucket of cold water to turn off the idea of discussing. The reasons – various, but they all have a scent of fear from some kind of threat.
And yet…
Nobody will cease talking about storytelling. People sense there is something there. Some try defining ability and skill in the field and the really great storytellers have a line of interested followers behind them. So I’m back to my question: what’s there? Why are so many people dealing with this issue?
Who will benefit from the existence of great storytellers?
And maybe that is not the exact question. I’m not sure. Maybe the parallel question should be – if storytelling is offered to you as an investment, why would you invest in it? And maybe – who will go down if great storytellers will be around?
Whole heartedly, I would be grateful to read your thought and comments.
When I hear the word “storyteller” I immediately connect with heartful work. I believe that a tale teller can be a person who cares – nay loves – to share the precious art of telling for that sole purpose – to bring back the joy of magic and dreams, which is so lacking in our world today.
If the teller can bring just a tiny part of the starlight which inhabits the very heart of every human in the world, then he or she is creating the start of a new era, one in which we re-find our child selves, and the wisdom therein.
Much of our life we are bombarded by dark news, and sad times, and to be able to inhabit a new world of light and laughter is such a joy.
Long may we invest in our well-being!
hugs
steph
Hi Steph,
Such a heartfelt comment is rather rare these days while at the same time I feel storytellers see this language as relevant. Do you think people see us as childish or out of place? where is the bridge that will help many realize this language and the joy of magic and dreams is so important?
Hugs for certain,
Limor
Hi Limor,
Yes, the world of stories is “child – like” and I wonder how many people actually like the child inside.
My own journey has been a struggle of learning to love the child I was and still am, and the fear of being child-like may be part of the reluctance – ” don’t be so childish” “grow up” are things that we hear as children, and learn to believe in.
I certainly did!
And yet – when you see a storyteller weaving a magic story for children, it is amazing to see the number of parents sitting spellbound – mouth open, embracing the experience of being wrapped around in the loving arms of story.
Where is the bridge? Hmm that is a difficult question.
I guess we need to go on putting it out there – jumping in the fire and “being the story”.
You can only lead a camel to water….
Yes,
Seems it can only be done through experience. So we have a fun task, hey? wrapping the loving arms of story around humans. I love it. I benefit directly 🙂
So in the spirit of people looking for a “clear and proven financial proposition” we’ll have to invent a “hugmeter”. Although I’m joking it suddenly occurs to me that a hugmeter can be a frightening device for some…
Sorry about the twisted idea but these hours get the Mephistopheles part out of me…
No problems with the idea – and what are you doing up so late? Be gentle dear teller – and kind to yourself…
Have you heard about this ?
http://www.liberaljudaism.org/pdf/Healing_Words_Festival_09.pdf
Our course tutor at Emerson college Roi Gal Or is an israeli who is helping to run this festival this year..thught you might want to check it out?
hugs and cheers
steph
Weaving… weaving… that’s what I’m doing when I’m up so late. Thank you for your consideration though…
Yes, I have heard about Healing Words and visited the site. Roi knows who I am. So do David and Duncan and they all know I can help. I’m here. They are more than welcome to contact.
Regards,