Why tell stories? Most of the time when we tell stories we have reasons for telling the story in a particular way. Some of the reasons are: to sort out things in our lives, give explanations, impress others, teach lessons, record history, mark successes, make someone laugh, and/or cheer someone up. Sometimes our reason is that we just want to connect with someone else so we tell them a story.
Storytelling is a huge part of how and why we communicate. It affirms who we are. It connects us with others. Stories can transcend time and space; they can be real, imaginary, or both. According to Andrew Stanton, a writer and director for Disney/Pixar, "A good story can evoke wonder." When we read a great story we "surrender to wonder" and are compelled to pass it on.
"We have a profound need to tell and hear stories. It is how we share experiences, understand each other, and create community. Every conversation is full of personal anecdotes; every effort to explain shared customs and values needs a tale; every bit of wisdom is best expressed by a story. The very way our minds think is the essence of story. So to master powerful and effective communication, to engage people and ensure they remember facts, or to break down barriers of isolation within or between groups, telling stories in some form is essential."--Anonymous
There are many forms of storytelling. My favorite kind is in picture books.
In a book called, Voices in the Park by Anthony Brown, storytelling is the subject of the story. Brown tells a story about one moment in time at a city park, narrated by four voices with four different perspectives. Each character narrates the interaction at the park from their individual perspective. This is an interesting story that illustrates the ways in which our own points-of-view shape the way we see the world. Also, it shows how we can be at the same place at the same time and yet we interpret things in unique and individual ways. The illustrations in the book are excellent and contribute to telling the story by showing how the interactions overlap. Through stories, like Voices in the Park, we can learn a lot about our identities.
We can ask ourselves:
"Why do I feel compelled to tell certain stories?"
"Why do I connect with certain stories?"
"Why do I share certain stories?"
"What does this teach me about myself?"
Storytelling contributes to making us who we are. And as one of my ultimate favorite storyteller reminds us:
“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.” --Dr. Seuss.
This whole idea of storytelling reminds me of one of my best friends. He was one of those people who always have a story for everything and is constantly telling stories, usually funny ones. I always love hearing a good story that I can somehow connect to!
ReplyDeleteAll the story discussions reminds me of a phrase "Don't reinvent the wheel." When we are in a situation where we are trying to convey a message, we can find ourselves at a loss for words. Sometimes stories help fill in those soft spots. Stories can have endless possibilities as to their uses. They may pass the time, convey a message, or practically anything we want. So when we are in a situation that calls for a story, we don't reinvent the wheel, but recall an old memory or even a picture book.
ReplyDeleteThere is a show on tv called storytelling and it is musicians performing live and telling stories in between songs either about their life or what inspired their songs. It's really cool to get the background on some of their songs and the meaning or importance really sticks out. Now when I hear the songs instead of thinking what a cool song, I know the story behind it and what the artist was going through at that time.
ReplyDeleteMarcy, my friend showed me a children's book that has a great message. It reminded me of class and storytelling. The book is called "Have You Filled A Bucket Today." It has a wonderful message and great pictures! Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdnz6jmCbBw
ReplyDeleteThat is a great book! It has such an uplifting concept/message! Thanks for your comments!
DeleteStories can make a WORLD of a difference in our relationships- especially our close ones. I loved this post and all the quotes. When you think about it, telling stories really is one of the best ways to connect and bond with people. When we tell stories, we are giving the other person a part of ourselves, revealing our true identities. We can relate to most stories in various ways which helps us feel closer to one another. I remember when my husband and I first started dating and we shared different stories about ourselves and our lives. Sharing these stories was a way for us to convey to each other who we are- our characteristics, beliefs, values, etc.
ReplyDeleteOne of the ways you can keep things good in a relationship is to reminisce and retell the good times. This form of storytelling is powerful in keeping relationships strong. It's like using imagined interaction theory with someone else. Together you can imagine/remember some of the best times you've had together. This can really strengthen your bond. You can also imagine great times in the future! Thanks for your comments!
DeleteI love that quote by Dr. Sues sooo much! That quote is something that we should read every day because it gives such great perspective. And I also like what you said about storytelling because it's so true, storytelling is the way we connect to others and the way we tell our own unique story.
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