Story-telling: No patronage required, oral narratives becoming popular
KOCHI: Technological advancement has rendered patronage in literature unnecessary. Furthermore, it is steadily reviving the tradition of oral narratives. Backing this insight, noted writer and former bureaucrat, N S Madhavan, pointed out that 90 per cent of messages sent in African and Arab countries are in the oral format, recorded and send through mediums such as WhatsApp, giving a fillip to the ancient form of communication.
The rise of the internet and smartphones have given scores of aspiring storytellers a platform to put their works out there, ending the need for patronage in getting your work published.
What distinguishes humans from other beings is their way of life and their ability to convey messages via stories.
The importance of story-telling as a powerful medium influencing change has existed from time immemorial.
Starting with the sign and oral language from say 1.5 lakh years ago, existing in significance till about 1,000 years back.
Madhavan added, a majority of ancient literature got passed on through oral traditions till it was recorded in a written format, at a much later date, with the arrival of the ‘manuscript age’.
The arrival of the Gutenberg’s printing press in the late 15th century, started the age of reproduction of written content, ushering in a new medium of expression and communication across the world. “Now, with the advent of the electronic age, all you need is a microphone and the internet to narrate your story. All interested in listening to your content can immediately join in,” said Madhavan.
He, however, cautioned that the literature thus produced could be good or bad and with the advent of social media the pace at which a campaign spreads can swing major outcomes in this age.
Welcoming the democratic age of writing, the author said, “It’s all about whether one can interest the reader or not. No mediation, editor or a patron is required. If your work is good, you will find readers.”
N S Madhavan was speaking at a lecture organised by the Kerala Management Association in memory of M K K Nayar, renowned bureaucrat and cultural activist.