Exploring the Timeless Appeal of Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens, a literary giant of the 19th century, achieved a level of popularity that transcended traditional barriers, even reaching the illiterate population. In a unique cultural phenomenon, those unable to read his novels individually found an ingenious solution – communal reading.
Dickens’s works became a shared experience among the illiterate, binding communities together. Individuals pooled their meager resources to hire a reader and then assembled to listen to the enchanting tales spun by the celebrated author. This communal approach not only brought the joy of storytelling to those who couldn’t read but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared cultural identity. This communal shindig wasn’t just about enjoying a good yarn – it was a glue that bound communities together.
What makes Dickens the people’s storyteller? It’s his knack for speaking to the hearts of diverse audiences. These communal reading fiestas weren’t exclusive; they were open to anyone with an eagerness to be part of a shared literary adventure. It’s the ultimate reminder that in the midst of letters and words, being seen, heard, and appreciated is the real show-stealer.
In a world where literacy was not universal, the act of collectively enjoying Dickens’s stories underscored the human need for connection and the power of storytelling to transcend educational limitations. This unique historical practice not only enriched the lives of the illiterate but also showcased the enduring impact of Dickens’s storytelling on society at large.
We are reminded of the profound influence literature can have on fostering community bonds. So, the next time you find yourself curled up with a Dickens classic, imagine the cheer of those enthusiasts, creating their literary ruckus. Dickens’s legacy isn’t confined to dusty pages; it’s alive in the hearts of those who, although unable to read, found solace and connection through the shared experience of his timeless tales.
Cheers to the Dickensian revelry that knows no literacy bounds!Â
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Julienne B. Ryan began her professional career at age five when she did TV commercials and learned important things like “the teamsters always eat first,” her social security number and how to endorse checks for bank deposit.
Ryan studied psychology in college because she wanted to understand humans. She conducted her “field work” in a variety of roles, hearing the phrases “merger synergies, reorganizations, downsizing and rightsizing for change” more times than she cares to mention.
Later she enrolled in an Ivy League graduate school where she paid oodles of money to validate her prior on-the-job learning experiences. However, she did learn to name drop up-to-date theories and trendy psychologists with alarming ease.
Ryan evolved into working in “Talent Management,” a fancy way of saying “try to find people and keep them moderately happy.” With inadequate budgets and staff allocations, she had to find creative ways to encourage her staff to work effectively. These ranged from begging and borrowing resources, improvising childcare, telling stories and even giving snacks as rewards. She tried to convince herself that working a bazillion hours and “multi-tasking” equaled achievement.
Her work took place in cubicles, conference rooms or, with luck, in offices with a door. Occasionally she would make the time to emerge from her allotted real estate to really talk to people. Ryan learned something transformative in the process:
Yes, she was effective. But not because she used fancy theories – or gave great snacks. Ryan’s success, her staff believed, was a result of her uncanny knack for weaving storytelling with humor to motivate and encourage them. Crucially, they encouraged Ryan to de-emphasize “that normal HR stuff” and focus on bringing her unique storytelling skills to a broader stage.
Thanks to them, Ryan continues to collect, connect and tell stories in her work helping people find their “true selves in the world of work.
She is the author of the humorous, all true "The Learned It In Queens Communications Playbook - Winning Against Distraction!".that now includes a workbook and is available at booksellers across the globe..
She is a guest contributor to The Procurement Foundry, LifeBlood, and the global storytelling community.
Certifications include
Accumatch (BI) Behavior Intelligence
Narativ Applied Storytelling Methodologies
Collective Brains – Mentorship Methodologies
