When telling a story, it is essential to create an audience who feel compelled to pay attention.
In exploring the theme of The Oral Tradition recently, certain memories have popped up which show how instructive everyday situations can be in developing an understanding of how this tradition works.
Here’s a memory of a card-sharp (or card-shark, if you prefer) from when I was 7 or 8 years old.

This is a story about primary orality : thought and expression untouched by the culture of writing or print.
There are places where language takes root, grows and generally has a field-day. Street markets are full of people who use language to make us listen.
Want to know more about the price of cabbages and today’s unbeatable offer on sheets and towels? Read on, dear reader.