How Much Preparation?

Jeff moved from talking about a story that was clearly untrue to one that was clearly true, but was very rehearsed and polished. Both got low scores at The Moth. Too much polish can seem inauthentic, like telling an untrue story.  

 

Jeff mentioned a favorite story that involved an unlikely connection between two people. It is interesting that the “you are not alone” message could be not only between teller and audience, but also between people in the story. They formed a connection. 

 

I added a code for “Preparation.” It has to do with performance, but isn’t really dictated by the event. Tellers mostly decide how much to prepare. Although some preparation might be expected if tellers need to stay within a time limit. Jeff also described a show in which he realized they had expected him to have a more polished story and that would also assume preparation.  

 

Audience reaction can help the teller understand what the story means – or at least see deeper meaning in parts of the story. 

 

Added a code for “stakes” too. The Moth mentions that stories should have stakes and this comes up in interviews. Also something I should make sure to ask about very deliberately in the future!