
09/16/2025
In this Sharp End story from Alpinist 91—which is now available on newsstands and in our online store—Derek Franz considers recurring themes and the responsibilities of storytelling. He writes:
“Storytelling is at its highest form when done in service to the bigger picture that goes beyond one person’s benefit; when the threads intertwine and connect, creating a fabric, a mosaic, a song, an ongoing conversation. At their best, stories are how we understand who we are, where we come from, where we are now, what we value or despise and where we might be going. At their worst, stories are lies we recite to ourselves and others—to hide unpleasant truths, elevate ourselves and bring others down…. Context gives depth to the perspective. Or negates it.”
You can now read the story here: https://alpinist.com/editors-note/responsibilities-of-storytelling/
Did you know—only a small fraction of our many long-form stories from the print edition are ever uploaded to Alpinist.com. Be sure to pick up Alpinist 91 for all the goodness: Alpinist.com/91
Clouds shadow Mt. of the Holy Cross (14,005’) while Old-Man-of-the-Mountain flowers (Tetraneuris grandiflora) soak up Colorado’s sunshine. The flowers bloom only once in their lifetime, about every twelve years. [Photo] Derek Franz
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