[Ansteorra] The Journey (was SCA slang)

[Brian Martin]

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I think that Elysia makes an excellent point here and its one that I'd like
to address: Old timers and people who like to play persona and be more into
the history should nurture new people and people who want to learn. Having
said that, most of the folks that fall into the former category will nurture
new folk but should probably be more proactive about making that fact known.
I also think that more people should teach persona classes. Mine is the only
one that I know gets taught fairly regularly - why is that? My manner of
persona play isn't the only way of doing it; let's see some variety.

Elysia also says that new folks are often intimidated by some of us. I was
even told that I needed to work on being more approachable. Since I try to
be cordial to people, especially new people, I'm still trying to figure that
one out. Should I carry a sign explaining that its alright to talk to me?
Sorry, but I'm always going to be loud and, well, Pendarish - that's my
persona. But while I understand that newer folk will often be intimidated by
people like that, those people are actually pretty nice and don't mind
talking to new comers. I can speak for myself, my wife and many of my
friends on this one. Shoot, even Gunnorra is nice most of the time! :-)
(She's gonna get me for that, I just know it.)

I'd like to make two challenges:
1. Someone else out there teach a persona class in the next six months
2. If you're new, find someone who is older and venerable , and go up to
them and talk to them. (And let me know if they're mean to you.)

Pendaran

-----Original Message-----
From: Rhodes-walden, Jennifer
[mailto:Jennifer.Rhodes-walden at usa.xerox.com]
Sent: Friday, April 12, 2002 3:56 PM
To: 'ansteorra at ansteorra.org'
Subject: RE: [Ansteorra] The Journey (was SCA slang)



I've read over the various comments made by those who are well-established
(and well known) in the SCA. As a (fairly) newcomer, I've been exposed to
both stances - those who prefer to promote historical authenticity and those
who weave the Dream in their own unique way, shying away from those who are
vocal about their opinions. Until now, my comments remained quietly tucked
into my head, because I *am* a relative newcomer.

That being said, I've managed to pluck up my courage and offer my two pence
into the gentle fray. Please forgive the forthcoming speech from the
proverbial soapbox.

I joined the SCA for various reasons I'm not sure of, honestly. Certainly,
it was to meet like-minded people who enjoy re-enacting a fascinating period
in time, cherishing those ideas near and dear to my heart. Definitely, it
was a means of expanding my historical education - books can only teach you
so much. And it seemed like a wonderful way to spend my free time.

But for someone coming in off the street, the first few event(s) can be
overwhelming. Even if you have a historical or research background (which I
do), it is difficult to simply plunge into persona play, into accuracy, even
with research done. If you know few people, it's even more difficult. You're
so afraid of saying or doing the 'wrong thing' that you're reluctant to do
*anything.*

I.E., His Excellency Pendaran was very forgiving, even when I called him by
the *entirely* wrong name! (I'm still blushing over this one...)

This being the case, for all of you who favor authenticity out there...
allow me to ask you to take us under your wings. Help us, not only by
setting an example, but by showing us how a persona begins. I know His
Excellency Pendaran holds a persona class. Perhaps others who are equally
fervent in their pursuit of authenticated personas/play could be persuaded
as well. We, the newcomers, are eager to participate in the Dream, but many
of us simply don't know where to begin. Having a name and a neat set of garb
does not a persona make, as I have found out. Some of us are fascinated by
the high level of expertise you display in your play, but find approaching
that persona intimidating. I freely admit, I find it so, even after making
your acquaintances.

Maybe this might reduce the finger pointing and name calling that exists,
but shouldn't, in this fine game. As so many good gentles point out, we're
all here to have fun with history - each in their own special way.

In service to the Dream we love and stepping OFF the soapbox,

Elysia de Solares



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