Words by Kaylin Sullivan
Does a story exist if it’s never heard, or read?
Philosophical stance aside, we often don’t consider the role of listening in the art of storytelling. We often get so consumed in figuring out what our stories are and how to tell them, we forget that expression is a two-way street. If we’re going to be be able to express ourselves authentically, we also need to receive the expression of others. If you want to grow, be inspired, be creative and love- just turn up the volume and listen (and by listen we also mean read).
The power of platform
An interviewee is telling us about his journey as a runner: the trials and triumphs, the growth and celebration. All he’s been through and accomplished is bubbling up to the service. Memories crack through his voice and friendships surface in lit-up eyes. He is moved, relieved, nostalgic, laughing. It’s a cascade of emotions, 20 years told in an hour. He thanks us for the opportunity to tell his story. In meeting his eyes and knowing the stories behind them, the superficial aspects fade away. The “content” doesn’t matter anymore. The words have become more than something told and heard. When you notice how a person transforms and releases when they are being listened to, you gain an appreciation for the humanity that lies beneath the surface of communication.
It takes two to story-tell
In a Ted talk entitled The Power of Two- How Storytelling Shapes Listening, copresented by Paul Browde and Murray Nossel, a good analogy is given:
“Think about listening as a bowl, and telling as the liquid being poured into that bowl. Just as the bowl gives the liquid its shape, so does our listening give telling its shape.”
The talk highlights the reciprocal nature of storytelling- how one cannot exist without the other. To express oneself is an exchange, where listening is the receiving and telling is the giving. Whether it’s fiction, a memoir or a rant at the end of the day, platforms are provided by audiences. What their attention really means is that the person who is expressing is being recognised. Humans crave recognition as the social creatures we are. It is fundamental to our being. Our stories and self expression are meaningless without others to listen.
Be moved
Bill Nye said “Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don’t.” Every single person has a unique perspective. Every single person has a story. When we listen to what others have to say, we open ourselves up to an abundance of experiences through them. We learn, we feel and we are taken on journeys by listening. If we wish to become more interesting and eclectic ourselves, if we crave to be inspired and moved in life, if we dream of changing the world, all we need to do is listen to the people and environment around us.
Expression itself is only one half of the art. This is no solitary undertaking- so share what’s inside of you! Scream, write, sing, whisper and listen. Your stories, work and opinions all have a place in this world, no matter how they are received and no matter their “quality.” Share because there is always someone listening and listen because stories don’t exist if you’re not listening.