Story-telling has been a part of world society and culture since the beginning of time. It is through story-telling that some of a region’s history has survived to modern day. It’s a well-known fact that word of mouth is still the best way to spread information. 

The problem with some of the stories is that there is a lack of tangible proof or evidence. This lack of evidence places these stories in the category of legend and/or myth. Some myths are rather outlandish and some are very believable.

New myths spring up in society all the time and spread like wildfire. In an age of modern technology, where facts rule the day, why are myths still being told? There a few answers to that question. 

Fun

Myths and legends can range from heroic animals to creepy swamp creatures. These tales are fun to talk about and can be quite entertaining to locals and visitors alike. Myths can make a place more interesting to live in. 

Think about when you visit an area, do you like to find out tidbits from the locals? What about when you are talking to people that are not from your area. Do you offer up any local lore? Sometimes it’s fun to sit around with old friends and exchange stories you all grew up with.

Puts it on the map

Some legends can make an area famous, or infamous. Those stories can draw interest from travelers and adventure seekers. The result can be a boost in the local economy and maybe even being featured on television and the internet. 

Whether the myths are newly created or existing local legend, the attention can be a real coo for a small town/business. Even if most visitors believe the legend(s) are not true, they may still want to see for themselves. This influx of visitors can almost guarantee that the story, and name of the area, will be repeated to others. 

Feeds the need for the unusual

Especially in recent years, there is an interest in all things outside of the norm. Hauntings, tragic tales of misfortune and unexplained occurrences/creatures are all fascinating to growing audience of thrill seekers. The popularity of television shows, books and websites dealing with legends and myths continues to rise. 

The proof is not just in today’s adventurers, but is evident in the past. There are accounts of adventurers from as far back as written history goes. People in general seem to have always had an interest in unusual people, places and events. 

There is little doubt that myths and legends will be around for a long, long time. Story-telling was the original form of entertainment, teaching and preserving life events. Today, myths and legends still serve those purposes and more.

Thanks to technology, myths and legends of a remote area can reach audiences around the world. Perhaps because of this, people are encouraged to keep the stories flowing. The other thing is, people seem to enjoy tales of mystery and intrigue. Myths and legends are fun to talk about, plain and simple.