A Method to the Madness.

In light of our recent class conversations centered on oral narration and storytelling, I wanted to share some of the key points I received on the topic today when sitting in on guest speaker Peter Wasamba's Roundtable discussion. Mr. Wasamaba is a professor of history at the University of Nairobi in Kenya. As a man dedicated to social change in his country, Wasamba has taken to using what he calls Oral Literature, the stories of the poor around him, to create references policy makers can use when creating policies for this recently war-torn country. What I found to be so refreshing and inspiring about Professor Wasamba's view oral literature is that it speaks to the very heart of what all literature was meant to do and should continue to do...inspire social change for the betterment of society. I feel that globally, we as human beings have forgotten what the primary function of literature should be which is to connect people to one another. Wasamba, however, has not forgotten this foundation at all but instead uses what he knows of literature for the betterment of the world he lives in. 

Not only, Wasamba asserts, does using Oral Literature inspire social change and help politicians to understand how they can better serve the community, but listening to other's stories, especially those stories told by the hurt and oppressed, creates an outlet for those who have been affected by violence. I found this to be incredibly interesting, encouraging, and truthful. Wasamba has heard many stories of those who have been hurt badly by the recent conflict in Kenya, and each time the people he has spoken with have been so thankful that there is somebody who takes them seriously and is willing to listen to what they have to say. Wasamba also has found that Oral Literature becomes a kind of therapy for those telling their stories because they finally come to terms with and can share what has happened to them and then move on from there to experience healing. 

I was so appreciative and excited about what Mr. Wasamba had to say about Oral Literature. I feel as though he spoke so much truth concerning the importance of storytelling and also listening to those who have things to say. I believe we can all learn something from the way in which this professor has chosen to carry on the practice of Oral Literature for the benefit of a brighter future for his country and the world.