Is the Art of Storytelling Lost?
Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda
Growing up in Uganda, books were not something that was readily available. Instead, vocal storytelling was a big part of our lives in how we went about our day-to-day. After a day's chores and evening meal, we were ready to relax and listen to our grandmothers tell us all the wonderful tales from their grandmothers and our great grandmothers. The tales always culminated to a wisdom, a lesson, or way of living.
It was such a delight just sitting next to a crackling fire or under the expanse of the dark night sky, with the stars twinkling and the bright moon shining through. We would listen to our grandmothers narrate the stories while teaching us valuable lessons of how to live more meaningfully.
What do I remember from the art of storytelling:
It was captivating and memorable.
There were different dynamics in the story.
The lessons would be applied to our day activities.
It was carried from one generation to another while still maintaining its essence.
As we went about our day to day in the communities, we would tap into the tales and lessons applying them to our day to day and also, learning and crafting our skill.
What is your favorite story that has left a meaningful impact in your life? Call me nostalgic but is the art of storytelling still here?