Oral histories are a big part of my life right now. There is much about the experience that makes me quick to go back for more. The unknown of what will be said as we sit together in our conversation (surely not interview?). The listening back of the recording, searching, re-tracking specific memories (not just words). And then there’s always the voice itself; whispery, proud, a bit broken.

Best Days of Our Lives is a community heritage project I’ve been coordinating with volunteers. We’ve been talking to people about their experiences of play in east London and it’s been a privilege to share moments that make you crack up laughing and others that pull hard on emotions. But it’s the sound of your voice, the biggest pleasure is listening to how you speak. Some excerpts here; Margaret, Helen, Roy E

http://bestdaysofourlivesproject.wordpress.com/oral-histories/

Linked posts:

http://oliviabellas.com/2011/07/25/serbian/
http://oliviabellas.com/2014/04/02/how-do-you-play/