from the intern blog : Let me tell you your story

originally posted at Native's intern blog



Human beings have loved listening to stories since the beginning of time.

In their caves, pre-modern man gathered in their caves to listen to the story-teller. The story-teller related to them their history and tragedies, reminded them of joys and victories, and gave them hope and inspiration to live exciting lives.

It’s innate to the human condition. Letting a story sweep you away is as natural as eating.

“A need to tell and hear stories is essential to the species Homo sapiens--second in necessity apparently after nourishment and before love and shelter. Millions survive without love or home, almost none in silence...”

A new story-telling paradigm has emerged. Through social media, story-tellers have new tools and techniques to move their audience.

Story-telling has constantly evolved through the introduction of new technology. Oral tales were followed by written tomes, followed by motion pictures. Each new technology introduced new possibilities for engaging with an audience.

Social media is the latest frontier. Augmented reality, geo-location, social networks; among the many technologies to turn users into characters in a story (pdf link).

Through technology, the gripping storyteller can now move his/her audience physically and emotionally as they unfold the story.

The audience don’t just follow the story, they are immersed in it. They are part of the story.

They don’t just identify with the plot highs and lows, they feel it as their own.

They don’t just passively watch, they actively seek stunning views.

Today’s story-teller uses social media to let the audience live exciting lives.