Interviewing is clearly a process. You want to try to get in depth as possible, all while trying to let the interview flow naturally as well. You are essentially trying to form a story about a person, diverging from a set of questions that you are asking them.
Oral history has been around for so many years. "Oral history grew out of oral tradition". Now a days we have all types of technology to record and replay the stories that are being told. years and years ago they didn't have that they had to rely solely on word of mouth. one quote that stood out to me was, "Oral history is a collection of stories and reminiscences of a person or persons who have firsthand knowledge of any number of experiences." This is what I thought of when I interviewed my Mem. I used her first hand experience growing up during the depression, and raising seven children in the 1950's and 1960's to gain knowledge from her point of view. The article defiantly let me see how there are many ways to get the background of a person and really get in depth to their past.
Another thing in the article that stood out to me was, "A sense of history forces us to make sense of who we are." I learned so much about my Mem that I never knew. It makes so much sense to me now, why she is the way that she is. Past experiences and background all added together makes us who we are.
I'm so excited to read you interview... sounds like you got a lot out of doing it!! :)
ReplyDeleteI like this post and I had basically the same opinion. I found this article really helpful, and I'm glad you enjoyed your interview and that it went well! :)
ReplyDeleteHey great post. I try to write on your blog on Tuesday and i was unable to, now my ideas are gone . But I though the paper was very informative but at the same time was overwhelming, I think it reapets itself kind of too often. I loved what you wrote about it. good luck
ReplyDelete