Archiving Memories of Wartime through Storytelling: A Reading of Temsula Ao's "An Old Man Remembers”
Authors :- I Watitula Longkumer
Publication :- Indian Literature: Sahitya Akademi Journal
Storytelling holds immense significance among the indigenous Naga people, whose historical accounts, both personal and collective, have been transmitted orally through generations. Even in contemporary Naga society, the reliance on oral narratives remains strong, as they serve as repositories of the community's knowledge and traditions. This deep-rooted connection between storytelling and Indigenous practices is mirrored in the creative endeavors of Naga writers. These writers recognize the symbiotic relationship between indigenous knowledge, philosophies, and their relevance in addressing modern-day issues. Notably, authors like Temsula Ao have expanded the scope of storytelling by incorporating narratives of wartime experiences, often overlooked and marginalized due to their association with painful memories and violence. In this essay, we delve into the intersecting realms of memory and storytelling, exploring a significant aspect of Naga history.