Beware the Narrative

Every now and then I must contend with a word or phrase that comes to mind and just will not go away – at least until acknowledged in writing. The phrase currently pestering my consciousness is: Beware the Narrative.

Webster’s defines “narrative” succinctly as “a spoken or written account of events, a story.” The verb “beware” simply means to be alert to the dangers of something or someone. So, what is up with this free-floating admonition to be alert to the dangers of a story? I have some clues.

Usage of the word “narrative” has become increasingly common, especially within popular media and politics. It is used frequently as a metaphorical basket for the accumulation of opinions, assumptions, and biases that drive agendas – often ideological or political.