Unlocking the Riches of African Literature: Exploring the Untold Tales

Chapter 1: Start in African Literature

Relish the rich and diverse landscape of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its modern evolution. The notion of {https://authorunion.org/african-literature-untold-stories/ it may be treasure trove of captivating narratives, vibrant storytelling, and compelling voices looking to find be discovered. As book enthusiasts, we invite you on a journey to unlock the riches of African literature and delve directly into the untold stories which have shaped the continent's literary heritage. African literature this may be a testament to the ability of words, as well as deeply intertwined aided by the oral traditions which were connected through generations. Much earlier the written word was prominent, African communities relied upon the oral transmission of stories, myths, and legends to convey their history, beliefs, and values. Griots, the traditional storytellers, held an esteemed role throughout the community, serving as the custodians of oral literature and preserving the collective memory of one's people. This rich tradition of oral storytelling laid the muse for the diverse tapestry of African literature we've today. Off from epic tales of Sundiata Keita in West Africa offered oral poetry no matter what the Zulu people in South Africa, these stories were woven on to the very fabric of African society. They celebrated bravery, love, wisdom, and moral lessons, serving aside from that as entertainment but also as educational tools, guiding individuals relating to path to self-discovery. With the appearance of writing systems and to discover the colonization of Africa, a new chapter in African literature emerged. African writers, both situated on the continent and right now in the diaspora, began by utilizing a written word as a method to challenge dominant narratives, voice their experiences, and reclaim their cultural heritage. This literary renaissance ushered in important narratives that offered unique perspectives on African history, identity, using the struggles faced by its people. Within the mid-1900s, the waves of African independence movements further fueled the expansion of African literature. Writers akin to Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and Ngugi wa Thiong'o emerged as literary giants, utilizing their the time needed explore post-colonial themes, social injustice, with complexities of cultural identity. Their novels, plays, and poetry played a vital role in shaping the African literary canon and capturing the spirit associated with a continent in transition. Today, African literature procedes to evolve, embracing a wide range of genres, styles, and themes. From contemporary fiction that tackles pressing societal issues to magical realism that seamlessly blends reality and myth, African writers are pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ayobami Adebayo, and Yaa Gyasi, and so on, are amplifying diverse voices and shedding light found on the intricate layers of African experiences. The ability of African literature is in its capability to connect readers with a society steeped in history, culture, and human experiences that may most certainly been previously unfamiliar. Through vibrant prose, vivid descriptions, and engaging narratives, African authors offer readers a window to complexities of African societies, providing insights and fostering empathy across geographical and cultural divides. As book enthusiasts, we're fortunate to embark this special literary exploration together, uncovering the wonders of African literature and immersing our society the untold stories looking to find be discovered. Join us we simply delve deeper directly into next process chapter, where we'll take you on a dealings with different genres and key authors that have shaped African literature. Plan be captivated, enlightened, and inspired while using the richness of African storytelling. <End swapped chapterAfrican literature, with its tallent to transport readers to distant lands, ignite the imagination, and challenge preconceived notions, has captivated book enthusiasts around the world. To begin with 1 / 3 this chapter, we launched into a journey through the origins of African literature, from its roots in oral storytelling traditions to its transformation into a powerful written form. Now, when we delve deeper into right when half, we will uncover the vibrant genres and influential authors that have shaped the African literary landscape. One of the most prominent genres in African literature so far the novel. Aloof from early works of Chinua Achebe far better contemporary writings of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, African novelists have deftly captured the complexities of African society along with your ongoing struggles. Their stories navigate themes of identity, power dynamics, colonialism, aided by the clash of traditional and modern values. A standout figure in African literary history is Chinua Achebe, whose groundbreaking novel “Things Fall Apart” explores the impact of European colonialism on Igbo society in Nigeria. By portraying the transformation no matter what the protagonist, Okonkwo, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage no importance Igbo people, Achebe shattered stereotypes and provided a platform for African voices it does not have to be heard globally. As African literature evolved, so practiced the exploration of other genres, similar to poetry and drama. Poets like Leopold Sedar Senghor and Christopher Okigbo captured the way to go with African beauty, spirituality, and struggles through their lyrical verses. Senghor's viewed as “Negritude” celebrated the African cultural identity, challenging the Eurocentric perspective prevalent during his time. With respect to of drama, Wole Soyinka, Africa's first Nobel Laureate in Literature, played an instrumental role. His play “Death when using the King's Horseman” delves within the clash between African traditional beliefs and British colonial rule in Nigeria. Soyinka's works just not only entertained but in addition held a reproduction to society, highlighting social and political issues while preserving African cultural heritage. Another genre that produced prominence in recent times is African speculative fiction. Authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Tade Thompson have embraced the realm in spite of what the fantastical to handle contemporary African issues and reimagine African narratives. Through tasks related to fantasy, fantasy, and magical realism, they challenge traditional boundaries and envision alternate futures geared toward the continent. African women writers, too, have used an indelible mark on the literary landscape. A little distance from empowering prose of Buchi Emecheta offered nuanced storytelling of Tsitsi Dangarembga, their works showcase the unique experiences and resilience of African women. By amplifying their voices, these authors have paved the way in the case of most people to tell their untold stories. Beyond novels, poetry, drama, and speculative fiction, African literature encompasses a vast different genres and forms, including short stories, memoirs, and essays. The variety and multiplicity of voices within African literature reflect the rich tapestry no matter the continent itself. As book enthusiasts, we keep privilege of immersing inside us these literary treasures and embracing the complexities of African storytelling. Each page presents strategies to challenge our perspectives, foster empathy, and deepen our understanding all over the world around us. So, allow us to continue this exploration together, embracing the magic of African literature and relishing within the untold stories that await discovery. With each turn of the page, we will uncover new narratives, explore vibrant genres, and hook up with the voices that shape this remarkable literary tradition. Open your hearts and minds, for sharing such riches of African literature are looking to find be unlocked. ________________________________________

Chapter 2: The Power of Storytelling in African Culture

Wearing a continent as diverse and vibrant as Africa, storytelling occupies a central residence its rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Passed on from in the past few years, stories in African culture are usually not mere entertainment nonetheless a strong tool that connects people, preserves history, and imparts wisdom. The skill of storytelling weaves a fancy web of narratives that collectively create backbone of African literature. Core of African storytelling lies the oral tradition, a singular mode of communication carries withstood the test of time. Unlike written literature, which serves as a very important medium in lots of cultures, African storytelling places emphasis situated on the spoken word. This oral tradition is deeply embedded throughout the roots of African society, serving staying a means of preserving heritage and passing down knowledge from a particular place generation to another. Storytelling in African culture will not be exclusively for specific spaces or occasions but permeates every factor of life. From sacred rituals to everyday conversations, stories are interwoven into the fabric of African society. The village elders become the custodians of those tales, entrusted utilizing responsibility of preserving the collective memory of their own communities. Through their narratives, they educate, inspire, and connect a future generations owing to roots. Perhaps used to make African storytelling truly exceptional is its ability to transcend effort and place. Oral narratives are not static entities nevertheless living and breathing stories that conform to the changing needs and context of their audience. A narrative may evolve while it is being retold, reflecting the influences of different cultures and experiences. This dynamic nature modifies the continued relevance of African narratives, ensuring their resonance in contemporary times. The significance of storytelling in African culture lies not simply in its role being dawn of entertainment but in addition as a robust conduit for cultural preservation. Stories function a bridge by using past, present, and future, allowing communities to take care of sense of identity and belonging. Through storytelling, African societies honor their ancestors, celebrate their collective achievements, and transmit their values and traditions to younger generations. The normal storyteller, known as the griot or jali, holds a revered position within African communities. They possess an encyclopedic experience history, folklore, and mythology, and function the keepers swapped oral tradition. At rhythmic voices and captivating gestures, the griots mesmerize their audiences, transporting each of them to a society stuffed with gods, heroes, and magical creatures. Their tales inspire listeners to ponder life's mysteries, instill moral lessons, and ignite their imagination. While African storytelling has deep roots within the oral tradition, its impact has grown far beyond spoken words. With the appearance of written literature, African authors have embraced the written word when you're a medium to amplify their voices and share their stories using the world. Influenced with all the rich heritage of oral storytelling, African literature draws upon the ability of narratives to light up the various experiences and struggles it does not matter continent. In recent times, there was a resurgence of involvement with African literature, both within Africa and on the worldwide stage. Through captivating works of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, African authors are reclaiming their narratives, challenging prevailing stereotypes, and showcasing the multifaceted realities of these continent. These literary voices are unlocking the hidden treasures of African literature, shedding light on untold stories and bringing them into the forefront of worldwide consciousness. Because we delve deeper into the concept of African storytelling, we would unravel the intricacies of a story tradition possesing stood the test of time. The tales that emerge through cultural tapestry usually are not merely entertainment; they're windows straight into the hearts and minds of a various continent. They carry the load of history, the expanse of imagination, and the ability to shape narratives through the years to come. At the true of African storytelling lies aire of community and connection, a recognition of the fact that stories we share certainly are a testament to our shared experiences and collective memory. In the vast African continent, tales of courage, love, and resilience are passed on from one puddle generation to another, each narrative etching itself directly into tapestry of African culture. Within the vibrant rhythms of African storytelling, one you can encounter a deep appreciation to use on the richness of oral traditions. These traditions simply not only serve as a means of preserving history but additionally as a vehicle for sparking dialogue and fostering understanding. In the second much less this chapter, we relish the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and dismantling stereotypes within African society. Because the tales unfold, they offer glimpses into diverse African cultures, revealing the complexities and nuances which put each community distinct. A little distance from nomadic tribes no matter Sahara as well as the bustling cities of West Africa, stories transcend geographical boundaries, allowing us to check diverse landscapes and varied perspectives which exist within the continent. Through storytelling, African literature challenges the homogenizing narratives that have often characterized Africa. As opposed to presenting a monolithic view, it celebrates the multitude of voices and experiences that cause Africa a mosaic of cultures and traditions. By embracing these narratives, African authors are reclaiming their identities and rewriting the narrative with their continent on their personal terms. One cannot delve into African storytelling without acknowledging the central role of ladies in preserving and shaping these narratives. Caused from strong-willed griottes of Mali to the powerful mkizis of East Africa, African women were being the unsung heroes of storytelling, weaving intricate tales that celebrate the resilience and wisdom and health of their communities. This recognition of female storytellers also brings balance to the narrative landscape but in addition highlights the role of women in African society as custodians of data and tradition. In the past few decades, African literature has experienced a renaissance, with a large number of African authors gaining international recognition and acclaim. These voices to offer fresh perspective on African experiences, metabolize stereotypes, and challenge dominant narratives. Through their works, they confront issues equivalent to political unrest, social injustice, and gender inequality, shedding light found on the complexities regardless of what the African experience and igniting conversations that resonate far beyond the continent's borders. Because we take a look at second any this chapter, we unravel the threads that connect African storytelling to its contemporary manifestations. Apart from oral traditions whatever the griots as well as the written word of recent African authors, storytelling continues to evolve and adapt while remaining rooted in a very very fundamental purpose: to make our stories and connect us other than broader human experience. To summary it, the ability of storytelling in African culture is undeniable. It is via spoken and written word that Africa's diverse narratives find their voice, bridging the gaps between generations and cultures. These stories, having their universal themes and unique perspectives, may well to inspire, educate, and unite a global audience. We simply journey deeper into the treasures of African literature, we additionally unlock the untold stories of causing continent but in addition embrace the wealth of human experiences that render the general public a part of a greater tapestry of existence. So join us since we embark for that voyage, discovering the riches that lie throughout the stories of Africa, and consult the power of storytelling firsthand. ________________________________________

Chapter 3: African Mythology: Gods, Spirits, and Legends

Delve throughout the captivating realm of African mythology and explore fascinating tales of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures. With a high-priced and diverse cultural heritage, Africa stands currently being a treasure trove of captivating stories which have been handed down through generations. These myths reflect the beliefs, values, and traditions no matter what the African people, offering a glimpse into their profound spiritual connections and to discover the forces that shape their lives. One cannot explore African mythology without encountering the mighty deities that hold immense power over the body's world. Faraway from vast savannahs alongside the depths irregardless of oceans, gods akin to Olorun, Amun-Ra, and Ngai command the forces of nature, bestowing blessings and enacting punishments simply because they see fit. Should it be the thunderous storm summoned by Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning, or use the gentle rains that Zulu deity Nomkhubulwane will provide nurture celebrations, these gods embody the awe-inspiring forces of nature that Africans have revered for centuries. Beyond the gods, African mythology is replete with spirits that roam the Earth, interacting with humans and influencing daily life. Anansi, the West African spider spirit, is better known for his cunning and trickery, weaving webs of stories that entertain and impart important lessons. The Mami Wata, a water spirit found a large amount of African cultures, represents both beauty and danger, luring unsuspecting those with her irresistible charm. These spirits embody the vibrant tapestry of African folklore, adding intrigue and enchantment much better mythical narratives. The realm of African mythology also encompasses a many legendary creatures that captivate the imagination. Off from fearsome Mngwa, a gigantic cat-like creature intention to stalk the forests of Tanzania, much better mischievous Tokoloshe, a creature that delights in causing mischief and hassle, these mythical beings offers you glimpse straight into the African belief in the coexistence in spite of what the physical and spiritual worlds. Using some myths, creatures like the Asanbosam, a vampire-like creature with iron-hooked feet present in Ghanaian legends, function cautionary tales to instill fear and discourage bad behavior. Beyond their mythical nature, these stories hold immense cultural significance in African societies. They function a means of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings to a different generation besides the next. In the oral tradition, griots and storytellers have preserved these tales, going through the dear knowledge sold in them remains alive in the hearts and minds of Africans personal continent. Where we journey deeper into your realm of African mythology, we are going to encounter quite a lot of captivating narratives that weave together the material of African cultures. Further from creation stories that specify the origins of life aside from tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, each story offers a singular advice about the varied perspectives that comprise the African continent. With the 2nd fifty percent this chapter, we will delve into specific African myths, exploring the importance of those stories when it comes to their respective cultures. We are going to uncover the origins of the traditional Egyptian god Osiris having the powerful Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. We may even embark be linked to a journey into the notion of the Dogon people, where the mythical Nommo beings are believed to own played a pivotal operate in the finding of humanity. Prepare to be enchanted where we unravel these stories crammed with drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom. African mythology invites us to embrace the power of imagination, to question our part in living, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of find out the experience. Join us that we unlock the riches of African literature and embark connected with journey through the untold stories which have shaped the lives of millions throughout history.Set up be captivated most of us continue our exploration of African mythology, delving deeper to rich tapestry of gods, spirits, and legendary creatures that outline this enchanting realm. These tales could have been genetically inherited through generations, carrying with thier site the beliefs, values, and traditions regardless of what the African people, thus is is through them that we all truly would comprehend profound spiritual connections and forces that shape their lives. As we currently are embark regarding issues like treatment methods and so forth second the our journey, we encounter the ancient Egyptian god Osiris, a central figure in Egyptian mythology. Osiris, the god when you are facing a serious afterlife, resurrection, and fertility, plays a pivotal function in the complex cosmology of Egyptian belief. His story embodies the cyclical nature of life and death, plus eternal struggle between order and chaos. Through his death and resurrection, Osiris is just hope of rebirth and renewal, offering solace and reassurance to the ancient Egyptians as faced the uncertainties dedicated to them existence. Moving round the continent, we come nose to nose while using the mischievous and unpredictable Yoruba trickster deity Eshu. Eshu embodies the complex nature of human morality, often blurring the lines between good and evil. Accepted a messenger attached gods and humans, Eshu's actions could be both benevolent and malevolent, challenging individuals to navigate the balance between right and wrong. His presence in Yoruba mythology provides a reminder of the benefits of creating wise choices and studying under our mistakes. Our journey then takes us far better captivating discovery the Dogon people, the location where the mythical Nommo beings hold great significance. According to Dogon mythology, the Nommo are extraterrestrial beings that descended to Earth to aid in the creation of humanity. These amphibious creatures are revered because the masters of water and symbols of fertility. The Nommo bring in theor company a feeling of mystery and wonder, inviting us to contemplate the origins of our own existence and our place throughout the vast cosmos. It is located these myths, and countless others, that people wedding reception idea African cultures with the wisdom they impart. These vivid narratives function a technique of passing down traditions, beliefs, and moral teachings from a particular place generation onto a higher, suffering the precious knowledge present in them remains alive within the hearts and minds of Africans within the continent. Because we immerse ourselves in the varied perspectives made available by African mythology, we find a deeper appreciation for the sweetness and complexity of our experience. The tales of epic battles between gods and mortals, the creation stories that designate the origins of life, while using the symbolic characters that embody virtues and vices all help add to the richness for this extraordinary literary heritage. Let us be enthralled once again from an drama, symbolism, and profound wisdom of African mythology. These untold stories have shaped the lives of millions throughout history and look after to resonate with us today. To the power of imagination, they invite us to question our part in being and embrace the endless possibilities that lie before us. Join us as we currently are further unlock the riches of African literature, creating a journey that celebrates the cultural diversity and heritage of this notion magnificent continent. Together, allow us to cherish these stories to be the testament significantly better resilience, creativity, and extraordinary spirit when you are facing a serious African people. ________________________________________

Chapter 4: Folktales and Moral Lessons

Go to the enchantment of African folktales and unravel the profound moral lessons embedded within these timeless stories. These captivating narratives most certainly been forwarded through generations, serving currently being a treasure trove of wisdom and entertainment in African cultures. Folktales do not limit our service to just entertain but also educate and enlighten, conveying valuable life lessons that have stood the assessment of time. Africa that is a continent along with diverse cultures, where each one has its particular clear set of folktales and oral traditions. These stories are rooted within the historical past beliefs of the assorted ethnic groups, serving as their means of passing down cultural heritage and values. Caused from vast plains of East Africa to the vibrant markets of West Africa, folktales tend to be a large a part of African societies for centuries. One of many remarkable aspects of African folktales happens to be the permission to transcend scheduling and geography. These stories have traveled across borders and reached far-flung corners individuals, captivating audiences beyond Africa. They've a universal appeal, touching the hearts and minds of people other backgrounds. Facility of African folktales lie their moral lessons, which are sometimes delivered through anthropomorphized animals and magical creatures. These stories serve as a reproduction reflecting upon that old condition, addressing various aspects of life reminiscent of love, bravery, greed, and forgiveness. The characters while in these tales, whether human or animal, grapple with challenges and dilemmas that resonate with recipients of all ages. Take, for example, the well-known West African folktale “The Tortoise with Birds.” On this story, the crafty tortoise deceives the birds into sharing the food you got for them with him by pretending it doesn't need to be their friend. However, the birds soon discover his true intentions and gather to thwart his devious plans. This tale teaches us advantageous of discernment and wisdom. It reminds us to be prepared and not to trust blindly, for appearances might be deceiving. Another renowned folktale, “Why the Sky is Far Away,” arises from the Igbo people of Nigeria. It tells how it is of the way in which sky used to be near the globe, but because of humans' greed and disrespect for nature, it moved farther away. This cautionary tale creates a reminder irregardless of interdependence between humans and nature, urging us to cherish and preserve the environment. The fantastic thing about African folktales lies in their find out the seamlessly weave moral lessons into captivating narratives. Through engaging storytelling techniques, these tales check to see if the readers' attention while subtly instilling values and principles. The characters become vessels for these lessons, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and victories, ultimately imbibing the sanctity no importance message. Moreover, African folktales often integrate the oral tradition of call-and-response, engaging the audience and creating a feel community. These stories are supposed to be shared, sparking conversations around societal norms and values. They encourage dialogue and demanding thinking, inviting readers to mirror upon their very own lives and actions. In a world crammed with constant distractions and fast-paced living, the enchanting living of African folktales also has an oasis of tranquility and wisdom. They offer a totally-needed escape from reality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in quite a few magic and fantasy. These tales captivate the imagination, transporting us to distant lands and ancient times. That we venture further on to the depths of African literature, let us embrace the enchantment of folktales and explore hidden gems of wisdom they hold. With the 2nd considerably less this chapter, we will delve into specific folktales numerous other regions of Africa, exploring their individual narratives utilizing moral lessons they carry forth. Arrange embark on an journey of discovery and enlightenment that we both unlock the riches of African literature and unravel the untold stories that lie within. Aside from now, allow us to pause, leaving the chapter found on the precipice of another captivating tale, awaiting the turn whatever the page where new adventures and profound insights await.With the 2nd a lot less this chapter, we continue our exploration of African folktales, diving deeper throughout the rich tapestry of narratives and moral lessons that lie within. Join me like we journey through different regions of Africa and uncover the hidden gems of wisdom they hold. In East Africa, we encounter the captivating tale of “The Hare and the Elephant,” a folktale popular among the Maasai people. This story chronicles the hare's adventures even while outsmarts the mighty elephant through wit and cunning. It highlights the power of intelligence and quick thinking, showing us that that old smallest can overcome the mightiest when armed with cleverness and resourcefulness. Moving to Central Africa, we come across the heartwarming story of “The Greedy Antelope considering the Kind Elephant” far away from Bemba people of Zambia. On this tale, the antelope's insatiable greed leads to her downfall, at the same time as the kind-hearted elephant is rewarded to his generosity. It is typically a reminder that greed only leads to unhappiness, whereas acts of compassion and selflessness bring joy and fulfillment. Moving towards West Africa, we're introduced far better enchanting folktale of “Anansi the Spider” from the Ashanti culture in Ghana. Anansi, a creative and mischievous spider, weaves intricate webs of trickery and cunning to outwit his adversaries. These tales teach us valuable lessons about wisdom, cleverness, and the biggest plus of applying one's intelligence for the good. In Southern Africa, the San people share their ancient wisdom because of the folktale of “The Moon add the Hare.” This story explains why the moon weak a hare living on its surface, having been a result of hare's bravery and self-sacrifice. It imparts the lesson of valor and bravado, reminding us that courage comes in many forms knowning that it is there such a smallest acts can make a significant impact. All these places folktales from many regions of Africa it offers a unique lens during this we will understand and profit continent's diverse cultures and heritage. They provide profound insights into corrected, societal values, and our relationship with the body's world. Beyond their moral lessons, African folktales enchant us with the use of vivid imagery and captivating storytelling techniques. We are transported to distant lands where animals speak, forests standout, and magic takes center stage. The oral tradition of call-and-response goes on to weave its magic, engaging readers in just a shared experience and fostering a way togetherness and connection. When we immerse our civilization the enchanting existence of African folktales, we're reminded of the power of storytelling as vehicles for preserving cultural heritage and passing down wisdom to a different generation on top of the next. These timeless stories have stood the assessment on a rgular basis, captivating audiences far out your borders of Africa. Of their simplicity lies their universality, transcending language and cultural barriers. They teach us that no matter our background, all of us grapple with similar challenges and dilemmas in life. From each of these folktales, we discover common ground explore valuable lessons that resonate with this own experiences. So, dear book enthusiasts, let us embrace the enchantment of African folktales and uncover the profound wisdom they offer. Allow us to listen, learn, and reflect upon the timeless stories that have shaped communities and instilled moral values for centuries. Since we conclude this chapter, leaving you afterwards of discovery and enlightenment, let these folktales linger in your thoughts, inspiring conversations and sparking newfound curiosity. May they serve as a reminder and see if the treasures of African literature await, able to be unlocked and shared when using the world. Understand for the upcoming chapter, where we'll embark on a new literary adventure, delving inside works of African authors and exploring the richness from the storytelling. Specially now, supply magic of African folktales fill your hearts and minds, inviting that enable you to check out untold stories that lie within. Remember, the facility of those tales lies not only in their enchantment but also of their the hungry shape our own narratives and understanding it does not matter world. Open your minds as well as the wonders of African literature, and assist the riches within unfold. ________________________________________

Chapter 5: Exploration of African Oral Literature

Enter the idea of African oral literature as we currently are examine the historical significance and enduring impact of oral storytelling traditions. Across the vast African continent, storytelling has also been an intrinsic part of the cultural fabric for centuries. Realized from during recent times at the oral tradition, these narratives haven't only entertained, but additionally treated a singular type of education, transmission of cultural values, and preservation of history. With a view to fully prize richness of African oral literature, it is essential to understand the historical context by which these traditions developed. For countless generations, leading up to the arrival of written forms of communication, African societies relied on oral storytelling as a way o