Friends enjoying a moment of storytelling

STORYTELLING, THE SOUL OF AFRICAN CULTURE

WE BRING YOU STORIES FROM AFRICA – AND THE MAGIC OF LIVING WELL.

Storytelling was a big part of my family tradition. As kids we would sit around the elders at night time after a long day to share stories. These stories were of all kinds; from folklore to fable. We were treated with a bit of history every now and then. It was one of the most pleasant aspects of my upbringing and I always looked forward to nights of storytelling. The beauty of it was that it helped to create a bond in the whole family. It was also a medium of education and enlightenment. Of course, you cannot rule out the core aim which is to entertain; lighten the brain muscles thereby easing tension.

Storytelling has its place in society today. Though as we grow up and are separated from our family, we cannot sit together around the night candle or moonlight as we once did, but we can open to the pages of fiction and enjoy wonderful stories crafted by beautiful and imaginative minds that the world has been blessed with. I read all sorts of stories and genres, until I couldn’t help but put pen to paper in other to write my own stories. In the tradition of storytelling it’s not about whose story is more entertaining or educative, but that you are able to speak up when it’s your turn. I tell because it’s my turn.

With the likes of Chinua Achebe, Elechi Amadi, Buchi Emechenta and others taking a bow after the sole of their feet have been worn by many travels -telling interesting stories, it is necessary for others to speak up and travel with their stories as our ancestors did. One day those of us who carry on the tradition of storytelling will move into a higher plane and others will carry it on. This tradition must live on because our world cannot function properly without it.

KEEPING THE FLAMES OF AFRICAN STORYTELLING ALIVE IS LIFE ITSELF.