The job of a storyteller is to speak the truth. But what we feel most deeply can’t be spoken in words alone. At this level, only images connect. And here, story becomes symbol; symbol is myth. And myth is truth.
Interpretation
Storytellers convey deep truths through symbols and images rather than mere words.
In this quote, Alan Garner emphasizes the profound nature of storytelling, suggesting that the truest feelings and experiences often cannot be fully captured through words alone. Instead, the storyteller employs symbols and images that resonate on a deeper level, transforming simple narratives into powerful myths that convey greater truths about the human experience.
In practice
In a workshop on creative writing, one might use this quote to discuss the importance of imagery in storytelling.
The last song was so deep and raw and pure that I could not escape. It was as if the people were singing in between the notes, weeping and joyful at the same time, and I felt like their voices or something was rocking me in its bosom, holding me like a scared kid, and I opened up to that feeling-and it washed over me.
A true diva is graceful, and talented, and strong, and fearless and brave and someone with humility.
She has form," he said to himself, as he walked away through the grove - "that cannot be denied to her; but has she got feeling? I am afraid not. In fact, she is like most artists; she is all style, without any sincerity. She would not sacrifice herself for others. She thinks merely of music, and everybody knows that arts are selfish. Still, it must be admitted that she has some beautiful notes in her voice. What a pity it is that they do not mean anything, or do any practical good.
The modern artist is working with space and time, and expressing his feelings rather than illustrating.
The only people I would care to be with now are artists and people who have suffered: those who know what beauty is, and those who know what sorrow is: nobody else interests me.
Fashion is very important. It is life-enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well.
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