Riverside Raconteurs Storytelling Bonfire

If that headline makes you say, “what in the heck?”, I would like to say that my description of our experience may still leave you with questions. I know I still have some.

During my area research I came across the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association and the James Veen Observatory. I thought, mmm, Dale likes space-related stuff, let’s see what they’ve got going on. And that’s how we ended up out in the middle of nowhere, sitting around a fire with about 50 strangers. Here’s what the event description said:

"The Riverside Raconteurs have a long tradition of creativity and fellowship in West Michigan and we are delighted to welcome them to Kissing Rock Hill. Bring lawn chairs, family and friends, and snacks and beverages if you wish. Then gather around a crackling fire and enjoy this experience with friends new and old. Share a tale of your own, or just sit back and enjoy a variety of yarns spun by experienced storytellers."

I thought, wow, that’s kind of neat, to sit around a fire with strangers and tell stories. And it was neat, but very odd. There were a few children, teenagers, young adults and mostly old people. Some shared poems, some just told stories. One boy, probably 10 years old or so, told jokes. There was also music. One duo played guitar and bass while singing original songs. Another girl played ukulele and sang a love song to her boyfriend for his birthday.

Then a man announced it was time for the Nash Off. The what?? I’m not prepared, what’s going on? In my mind I’m thinking gnash off. Are we going to verbally assault each other now? No, it was even weirder! People started saying Ogden Nash poems and verses by memory. Old, young, men, women, they all had numerous Ogden Nash poems at the ready. What the heck?

The Perfect Husband
He tells you when you’ve got on
too much lipstick
And helps you with your girdle
when your hips stick.

Reflection On Babies
A bit of talcum
Is always walcum.

I don’t think we heard these two specific ones, but you get the gist. It was quite entertaining. One young man, probably about 16 years old, knew a slew, not a few. (Help, I’m turning weird too!)

Then, they passed the bowl. No, they weren’t collecting offering, but rather offering cookies!

Soon afterwards we headed home chatting about the evening and how we do not ever expect to experience something like that again. It was really quite a lovely, country, good time. Watch this video for the vibe.