Tale Spinning: my writers blog
I’ve talked about my work and philosophy as a Teaching Artist, griped about things, had fun with things personal, and while I’ve danced around it, I don’t really think (without going through all by posts, which this morning I’m not up for that challenge) I’ve talked all that much about being a Storyteller, and why I have enjoyed it so much.
So, now I know what I’ll do for the last six of these blog for the Ultimate Blog Challenge. There is a lot to talk about in the world of the Storyteller. It’s not just for children is the first thing I want to put out there, although many still think that way.
There is The Moth type of personal story programs, live and on the radio/podcasts, that often are not at all for kids.
The Joseph Campbell Foundation continues his work in Mythology and comparative religion.
There is the Masters in Oral Traditions program at The Graduate Institute. The work produced during the two year program spans the generations, subject matter running from picture books to tales of the destructive nature of oppression.
There is corporate storytelling, which Alan Kay said while working for Walt Disney Imaging, said:
“Why was Solomon recognized as the wisest man in the world? Because he knew more stories (proverbs) than anyone else. Scratch the surface in a typical boardroom and we’re all just cavemen with briefcases, hungry for a wise person to tell us stories.”
There are programs in storytelling in almost, if not all, institutions and organizations around the world. Libraries and schools are the two main focuses, but you can find storytelling at: Museums, festivals, theaters, camps, retreats, houses of worship, elder care locations, cafes, specialty stores (books, clothing, jewelry..yes), in your own home and family, and many other venues. They range from stories for little ones to intergenerational telling, obviously.
I just came across, by a way of a writer I found on Twitter, Alain Miles, a series of six articles by Michelle MacEwan called The Power of Myth and Storytelling. Thanks Alain..funny guy to “talk” to. Worth following.
More to come.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 12:50:39
Love ‘cavemen with briefcases’ – has real potential for the name of a storyteller’s blog …
Apr 24, 2011 @ 14:24:49
Yes..it is a great title. If not a storyteller’s blog, for a stor…HEY>>>IT”S MINE> DON”T YOU POACH IT!!!!!
Apr 24, 2011 @ 12:52:03
Story telling is really an art Stuart and only some very talented people are naturals – I consider my Grandfather to be one. thanks a ton for this post Am on my way to Power of myth and storytelling.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 14:25:16
Thanks for the post. Let me know what you think of the articles.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 13:02:43
Really like this post Stuart, I am a great believer in the power of story-telling.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 14:25:46
Great. I’ll be going into more about it’s power this week. Thank you.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 13:31:53
The art of storytelling and the ability to speak effectively in public is invaluable. and can be applied to a variety of disciplines. I did not know there were education programs in this field. It’s such a primary mode of communication, the basis of civilization, I think. I bet many take oral traditions for granted.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 14:26:36
Yes, they do take this whole thing for granted. There are so many levels of tellers out there..and the basic one is you and me. We tell the stories of our lives daily. Thanks.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 17:09:31
When you look at marketing you discover the greatest speakers and most successful business people know how to tell stories. As the immortal Bill Gove said, “Make a point. Tell a story.” The personal touch makes it real and drives home the point.
Great post, stuart.
Apr 24, 2011 @ 18:55:50
Thank you Ali.
Apr 25, 2011 @ 03:26:38
well done. and topical at this season. now you’re a master at compressed story telling
Apr 25, 2011 @ 11:28:50
Thank you. Master, eh? The Dr. better watch out.
Apr 25, 2011 @ 21:04:58
I love story time> I think it the greatest time spent with one’s children. It sucks that t.v and gaming has taken over our family life. Books enrich the imagination and open a new world up to children and adults alike.
xoxox
Jessica
BTW I LOOK GOOD ON YOUR SITE
Apr 25, 2011 @ 21:07:22
Well, why wouldn’t you?
Story time is, really, only one aspect of storytelling. So many think that that is all storytelling is. Glad you liked.
Apr 26, 2011 @ 02:33:03
once upon a time in a land far far away…..
nicely said Stuart.
A
Apr 26, 2011 @ 02:34:41
Thank you A… I’ll be taking this one further
Apr 26, 2011 @ 05:49:14
Stories that take you away…from reality..a chance to breathe sometimes in fantasy… thanks Stuart..As always..XOXOXO
Apr 26, 2011 @ 11:31:28
And…to inspire, to hope, to create change…to express ones self. Thanks.