Art Quote by Melville Davisson Post
““It is a law of the story-teller's art that he does not tell a story. It is the listener who tells it. The story-teller does but provide him with the stimuli.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Storyteller’s Art” by Melville Davisson Post, 1925
The meaning of a story is created by the listener, not just the teller.
In simple terms: Listeners shape the story’s impact.
Key Takeaway
Engage audiences to co‑create meaning.
Themes
storytelling
listener
interpretation
communication
creativity
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- teaching
- public speaking
- marketing
- writing workshops
- media production
Key Concepts
narrative theory
participatory meaning
psychology of perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you guide listeners without dictating meaning?
- What cues help align interpretation?
A Different Perspective
Listeners may misinterpret or impose unintended meanings.
