The Lessons of Folklore
The folk stories that have been told for generations all over the world are foundational stories – they give meaning to universal aspects of experience. People communicating for social change can learn a lot from at least two common themes of folklore:
Giant killers. The giant stories told in cultures around the world are not really about giants – they’re about some marginal member of the community (little David with no sword or shield, dim-witted Jack, the cowardly tailor) who sees the giant a little differently from everyone else. The giant killers know you can’t take on the giant on his own terms. Giants will always win in arm wrestling. It takes strategy, and a willingness to do what is not expected. Giant killers find a way to turn the giant’s own strength, arrogance, and greed to their advantage. They force the giant onto their own terms.
Naming names. Probably ever since names were invented, humans have understood that knowing, and saying, someone’s name confers power onto the speaker. This idea is currently popular in the Harry Potter stories – the only person who dares speak the name of the evil one is the little boy destined to struggle with him. Strategic communication to get action requires knowing who can take the desired action, and being willing to name who is responsible, who is standing in the way, who is failing to act, who’s the hero.
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