Interpretive Hooks by Jeff Nordin December 1990

Contents Introduction and Bylaws Interpretive Clothing Scottish Culture History Music and Dance Military Life Language Bibliography, Sources and Library Materials

For the guests that we meet, a good conversation has as much chance of being the highlight of their memories as the shrill of the pipes, the grace of the sword dance, or any other skilled aspect of Clann efforts. For living historians a knack for conversation is the root of the difference between the actor and the interpreter. Conversational skill in living history requires the reading of history with a system to make conversational use of the information. The guest that wants conversation and will start one by asking the first question is a rarity. The ability to start conversations is a skill needed of us in the Clann. Conversation is not unlike dueling: a series of exchanges in an attempt to get your point across. The key to opening an exchange is provocation, the "forcing" of a response, or question from the guest. As openings go, "Do you have any questions?" is weak from a interpretive stand point. The standard parry is often "no", followed by a hasty retreat. Guests have the right to retreat, but wouldn't it be better to impart a little information before they go? There is an infinity of provocative beginnings to conversation, each tied to some historical fact. There are four categories in which these openers fall. 1. STATEMENTS:  Ye are welcome to the hospitality of Capt. MacDougall. It must be grand tae eat something other than soup. The weather reminds me of home. 2. QUESTIONS:  Beggin' your pardon, don't ye feel undressed, going aboot unarmed? Aren't ye afraid o'what people might think, lass, you bein' here unescorted? Lad, what trade is your faither's? 3. ASSUMPTIONS:  Get in the tent and get dressed. (Aren't ye one of the new recruits?) Put your pokes doon by the fire. (Aren't ye delivering the oats?) So you're the Laird that's hired us? 4. HANDS-ON, OR HELP HOLD THIS: Can ye carry that stane for me? Hold this corner will ye, help me fold this. Put this on, you're aboot his size. Could ye fight wearin' that? A useful exercise when reading the Clann manual, or any history of our time, is to make a list of provocative conversation openers that will allow you to talk about points of interest you find in your reading. Reviewing this list before an event will not only help you recall what you've read, but help you feel well prepared for starting conversations with guests.