Video

The Lindworm

A Story Told by Martin Shaw

In this short film, mythologist, author, and storyteller Martin Shaw tells the old Norwegian story of “The Lindworm,” a mythical creature that is part human and part snake. This ancient tale poses a timely question: what have we exiled that returns to us in fury? This telling of “The Lindworm” reminds us of the enduring wisdom of this timeless myth and of our often fraught and fearful relationship with the wild.

In this interview, Martin Shaw offers an extended reflection on the intelligence that lies at the heart of myths. The best stories, he says, ought to be trailed not trapped, and approached with discernment, an open heart, and an attuned ear.

Credits

Storyteller

Martin Shaw

Dr. Martin Shaw is a writer, teacher, and mythologist. His books include: A Branch from the Lightning Tree, Snowy Tower, and Scatterlings. Shaw’s translations of Celtic folklore and poetry (with Tony Hoagland) have been published in Poetry International, The Mississippi Review, Poetry Magazine, Orion, and the Kenyon Review. He is the founder of the Westcountry School of Myth, a learning community located on Dartmoor in the far west of the United Kingdom.
Illustrator

Tareq Mirza

Tareq Mirza is an illustrator, painter, and animator. His work in computer graphics and visual effects can be seen in the films Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, Matrix Reloaded, Matrix Revolutions, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Van Helsing. From his home in the San Francisco Bay Area, Tareq is currently exploring the convergence of 3D-printing technology with traditional sculpture and metalwork. He works as the Organic Modeling Lead at the Academy of Art University.
Director & Producer

Adam Loften

Adam Loften is a director, editor, cinematographer, and producer of short documentary films that highlight pressing social and environmental issues. His work has been featured on PBS, National Geographic, the Atlantic, and the New York Times.
Director & Producer

Emmanuel Vaughan-Lee

Emmanuel Vaughan-Lee is a filmmaker and composer. His award-winning films have been featured on PBS, National Geographic, the New York Times, the New Yorker, and the Atlantic, exhibited at the Smithsonian, and screened at festivals worldwide. He is the executive editor of Emergence Magazine.