Storifying and the the love of words

Words have always been my loyal companions, following me through notebooks, plays, songs, and stories, allowing me to express myself in ways that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. They’ve been there for me, whether I’m putting them together to convey a message or leaving some behind to refine my thoughts. While words have brought me joy, insight, and even financial rewards, the true value they offer transcends monetary gain. For me, writing is about self-expression, understanding the world, and sharing that understanding with others. It’s about mental well-being, clarity, and above all, the sheer joy of creation.

Writing is more than just a tool—it’s an essential medium that brings my thoughts, feelings, and ideas into the world. My love for words goes beyond just using them; it’s about understanding them, exploring their origins, and discovering the stories they carry within. Words have histories, and just like people, some words have stood the test of time while others have faded into obscurity.

One word that I’m particularly fond of is “storifying.” Admittedly, it’s not a term you’ll hear every day. In fact, the Oxford English Dictionary notes that it appears fewer than 0.01 times per million words in modern written English. I’ve made it my mission to change that, sprinkling it throughout my work and conversations over the past year. I’m hopeful that this article will push that statistic up a notch, and in doing so, make a tiny contribution to the ongoing evolution of our beautiful language.

“Storifying” dates back to the 1600s, though its exact origins are somewhat elusive. What I do know is that it perfectly encapsulates what I do when creating multifaceted narratives for various contexts—whether that’s curating a museum exhibition or transforming a street of shops, or dealing with a social issue. But why storify? The answer is simple: it brings things to life. It illuminates what you’re offering, presenting it in a new light that invites people to engage, explore, and connect. Storifying is inclusive, dynamic, and, most importantly, fun. It makes your message resonate, whether you’re telling a story, selling a product, or creating an experience.

I believe storifying is a word we’ll be hearing much more in the future. It’s a concept that’s as relevant to business, arts, and cultural management as it is to storytelling. And while it may have its roots in the 1600s, remember—you heard it here first from the Storifyer.