Stories take on many forms. Some may be long, sweeping Irish epics, comical Appalachian Jack Tales, or pourquoi folktales answering those "Why?" questions young children always seems to ask. Then there are those short, two minute stories that reach in, touch your soul, grab your heart, and momentarily leave the listener speechless. Two minutes? Can it be possible to accomplish all of that as the seconds tick by?
There is a story connected to the famous author Ernest Hemingway. It is said he considers this short story to be his best work, and he did it in just six words:
"For Sale: Baby shoes, never worn."
Today, the founders of massmouth are blazing a new trail for teenagers in Massachusetts. They are doing what might seem to be an impossible task, getting teens to share their stories through the StoriesLive! program. Granted, two minutes doesn't allow time to add extraordinary imagery, nuance and perfect pacing, the tools professional use to enhance their stories. Yet, the shorter time frame might just be the key these young adults need to unlock and release the fear of public speaking. Two minutes is possible, two is doable, two minutes is safe.
Listen to Maho share his heartstopping story, just one of the many high school students who are learning to share where they come from!
Would you like a chance to hear these stories live? There will be a public performance at Cambridge Public Library on April 30 at 2:30 P.M. (on Broadway). To listen to more student tellers go to www.massmouth.ning.com/events .