Rivers & Roads

By Jordon Phillips

Upon watching the short documentary for the first time the basic story is apparent. The documentary is a textbook “How To” video regarding rock climbing. The film discusses and displays the proper technique for tying into a rope as the climber as well as the mechanisms behind properly and safely belaying a climber. Both of those skills are essential for beginner climbers as well as advance climbers; thy are the foundation for any type of roped climbing. After watching the video a few times there exists and underlying subliminal story that is also being told. I am shown as the expert of my world and the teacher of the material however not so long in the recent past I was in the viewers shoes. There is the demonstration of technique and mechanics is the story of how the teacher came to this position. It is obvious these skills are not inherent and must be learned and through learning can one teach. The film concludes (will conclude) with footage of the teacher (me) climbing. Demonstrating a full circle story underlying the “how-to” video. At one point the teacher wanted to be a rock climber and had to be introduced through means other than videos like this. Once mastering the belay and tie in the master could then teach opening up the doors for others who want to break into the sport of rock climbing. 

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTWWVjcyibY)