Previous Message Return to Archive 2002 Next Message

Archive Number 1047

Date: Sat, 9 Feb 2002 09:05:23 EST
From: "Mary K. Clark"
Subject: Re: story request






In a message dated 2/9/02 5:15:18 AM, nyannatobin@ATT.NET writes:
<< My goal as a teller is to give story as a gift that fits the moment. I
believe
that the magic of Story is that it does fit and fill the context in which it
is given. Like water or light that fills a container. I can to this calling
through a story that was given to me in a time of need. I need more time to
read what has been posted already. I think this
discussion is much bigger than crafting story. It is like the difference that
I see between a crafted Dreamcatcher, and a Ritual Dreamcatcher. Both are
lovely, and stand on their own. >>

Nyanna,

Such an eloquent expression! Early this morning I was thinking about the
points already discussed. I opened my email and here are such beautifully
written words on the subject.

I work with personal, original and folktales. Most of the folktales I work
with, I initially saw in print. Once I have given them oral expression -
they seem to have a life of their own - one day it's this way - another day I
will express the story in another way. I no longer think of the story as
fixed. It is like the story has taken wings and it soars based upon the
prevailing winds (the teller, the listener, the audience, the situation,
etc.). There are organizations I have worked with that want me to connect
the oral expression of a story to the written word - I get the sense that
gives validity of an artform to some - I find myself resistant to do that.

I do, though, appreciate those tellers who work in a more "traditional" way -
careful to try to understand and preserve culture(s). It is just doesn't
happen to be my approach to this wonderful artform that encompasses so many
varied and unique artists.

- Mary








*****
Mary Clark
Exploring Story ~ Weaving Tales
Storyteller, Writer & Collage Artist