You’re never going to kill storytelling, because it’s built into the human plan. We come with it.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote highlights the inherent nature of storytelling as an essential aspect of human existence. Storytelling has been an integral part of human culture throughout history, allowing us to share experiences, pass on knowledge, and connect with one another on a deeper level. No matter the advancements in technology or changes in society, storytelling will always persist, as it serves to satisfy our innate desire for connection and understanding.
Who said the quote?
The quote "You're never going to kill storytelling, because it's built into the human plan. We come with it." was said by Margaret Atwood (Bio / Quotes). Margaret Atwood is a Canadian author and poet who is known for her works of speculative fiction, including "The Handmaid's Tale" and "Oryx and Crake.
What is the message behind this quote?
This quote highlights the inherent, almost instinctual, connection humans have with storytelling. From our earliest ancestors gathering around a fire to today's complex forms of media, stories have been an integral part of our DNA, so to speak. They're not just something we do for fun, they're a part of who we are.
The quote suggests that no matter how much technology advances or cultures evolve, storytelling is something that will never be extinguished. That's because it's wired into our very being. We are born with it. It's not just a part of our plan, it's ingrained in our blueprint.
Just think about how children, even before they can properly talk, start shaping narratives with their toys. Or how we, as adults, tend to remember facts better when they are embedded in a story. We are intrinsically wired to understand the world through stories. They give shape to our experiences, lend context to abstract ideas, and help us navigate the complexities of life.
So the essence of this quote is that storytelling is a fundamental human trait. It's not just a frivolous hobby or a fancy of the imagination—it's our birthright and our heritage. It's an integral part of how we comprehend the world around us, connect with others, and express our deepest emotions and thoughts. No matter what happens, storytelling will survive because it's a part of us. It's as simple—and as profound—as that.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that illustrates the enduring power of storytelling and its deep-rooted connection to humanity is the preservation and transmission of oral traditions across cultures.
Throughout history, before the advent of written language, societies relied on oral storytelling as the primary means of passing down knowledge, traditions, and cultural values from one generation to the next. Oral storytelling was a fundamental part of the human experience, serving various purposes such as entertainment, education, and the preservation of collective memory.
The ancient Greek civilization offers a compelling example of the significance of storytelling. The epic poems of Homer, namely the Iliad and the Odyssey, were initially composed and transmitted orally. These epic tales were performed by skilled bards who would travel from place to place, reciting the stories to enthralled audiences.
Despite the absence of written texts, these stories were ingrained deeply in the collective consciousness of the Greeks and played a vital role in shaping their cultural identity. The epic tales of heroes, gods, and mythical creatures in the Iliad and the Odyssey not only entertained but also conveyed moral lessons, explored human emotions, and reflected the values and beliefs of the society.
The enduring popularity and impact of Homer's epics are evident in their eventual transcription into written form, which preserved these timeless narratives and allowed them to reach wider audiences beyond the limitations of oral transmission. The survival and continued relevance of these stories over thousands of years demonstrate the indelible bond between storytelling and the human experience.
The example of oral traditions and the enduring legacy of works like the Iliad and the Odyssey highlight the inherent human inclination towards storytelling. Despite advancements in technology and changes in communication mediums, storytelling remains a fundamental aspect of our nature, deeply embedded in our cultural fabric and collective memory. It is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its everlasting presence in the human plan.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
