The Turn

08 Jun The Turn

Recently, we cited author Percival Everett, author of James, who spoke at the Santa Fe Int’l Literary Festival. One visual simile he used stuck with us. Everett said that writing about a new subject is like exploring a cave, which is also true for speaking. As you enter the cave, the familiar and illuminating light behind you is comforting, so you keep turning back to mitigate your discomfort. Then the light fades and you question whether-or-not to proceed into the darkness.

At this juncture, you either give up and return to the light, or do what Everett called The Turn. By committing to facing the unfamiliar, you elevate your mental resources and find your way through terra incognita. Everett says it’s the only way to be creative and stay on top of your game.

We enjoy changing up current methods of storytelling, self-introductions and presentations. Too many speakers are conditioned to structure and deliver their content in a traditional way. They cling to the familiar—even when it’s ineffective, until they take a risk and succeed. Proceed at your own speed but always be willing to turn toward the darkness.