Big Black Bird
I told this story at my friends Brad and Cyndi’s “Stories at the Creek” a couple weeks ago. It’s a work in progress for me. I’m trying to turn this year’s cancer battles (well documented on this blog) into a story I tell on stage, and this is the first crack.
Like I say in the video, I’m not sure if I’m ready to talk about this or not, but I’m ready to be ready to talk about this, and that’s as good a start as any. I think that telling stories based on our memories helps us get control of them and bend them to our purposes — something I’m really eager to do with this particular experience.
I wouldn’t have told this or posted it if I weren’t ready to see this as material, something to be honed and edited with the help of sharp-eyed, caring friends.
This thing’s a whammy, too — two ten-minute videos about cancer and depression. Not exactly the light and fluffy feel-good romantic comedies I’m known for performing, so brace yourselves. Maybe this is like watching “Requiem for a Dream” (not to flatter myself): good once, but a total fricking BUMMER.
Long story short, I’m used to telling funnier stories with big laugh payoffs, and this sure isn’t one of those.
August 10th, 2009 at 8:36 am
I really enjoyed this. This telling, this expression, is also a piece of the puzzle you’re putting together and it’s colorful and significant.
Thanks for sharing.
August 10th, 2009 at 8:51 am
Thank you. I do not have cancer… but sometimes, life let’s itself become cancerous. I needed a little wake-up today, and your story did it. You are a brilliant story teller. Thank you for sharing this part of your life.
August 10th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Jeff,
Thanks for sharing your story. I discovered your blog after the This American Life episode you appeared on, and it quickly became one of my favorites so I check in regularly (LOVE your Obama story in the days after the election). This was a shock to hear, because I feel like I’m just getting to “know” you, and I wish you well in recovery and remaining cancer free. Hang in there and keep entertaining us!
August 10th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Though you don’t see this as the usual rom/com big guffa stories, I want to add my voice to those who appreciate that you’re talking about this. Thanks for sharing, Jeff–we’re still listening.
August 28th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
hmm, your pause between the first and second clip was a bit triumphant as a story teller, you’ve quite come into your own, friend… please make some one (Maggie) hug you long and hard, you’re well deserved of a fine one.