My Writerly Self - Week 2 - Notebook LM
Weekly Creative Journal: September 30th - October 5th
Monday, September 30th - "Meeting In The Frost" Creative Process:
Today, I introduced Indicus-Resquire to a new setting—a desolate ice world where the harsh cold parallels his internal struggle. I aimed to create a stark contrast between the icy exterior and the warmth of his reunion with Anshela, a Keylass. This encounter needed to feel both tense and intimate, as the two characters have a shared past but are still unsure of each other’s roles.
Starting with Indicus’ entrance into the tavern, I focused on capturing the atmosphere of isolation. Indicus, now a Sin-Eater, carries the weight of his past as a Dalshaw, which I conveyed through descriptions of the biting cold and his silent observations. The telepathic conversation between Indicus and Anshela added another layer of distance—one that reflects their bond but also keeps emotions beneath the surface.
Their dialogue allowed me to highlight their contrasting personalities: Anshela’s playful wisdom against Indicus’ brooding nature. I wanted a moment of warmth when Anshela touches Indicus, breaking through his cold exterior. The appearance of a shadowy figure at the end brings them back to their roles as Sin-Eaters, reminding them of their ongoing work. But Anshela’s presence leaves Indicus with a lighter sense of purpose, a hint that he’s not alone in this struggle.
Tuesday, October 1st - "Mud and Chains" Creative Process:
Today, I explored Indicus-Resquire’s psyche, setting the tone with his immersion in mud—a metaphor for his physical, emotional, and spiritual imprisonment. The "mud and chains" represent the burdens he and his people have carried, grounding the story’s foundation in these symbols of oppression.
Indicus’ defiance, choosing to take a child’s place, was pivotal, born from my desire to explore themes of sacrifice and resistance. The Bellwethers’ grotesque appearance emerged as the embodiment of oppressive power. The climax, where Indicus confronts his oppressors at the Haunt, became symbolic of his resistance, with the platform serving as a stage for his rebellion.
The unexpected turn of Indicus meeting Death brought hope into the narrative. Death’s offer of transformation introduced the concept of the Sin-Eater—one who absorbs the sins of others. This marked Indicus’ rebirth as a force of change rather than a victim. By the end, I felt satisfied with Indicus’ evolution from passive sufferer to a powerful reckoner.
Wednesday, October 2nd - "River of Pain" Creative Process:
Today, I delved into producing River of Pain, a song that blends rock, grunge, heavy metal, and female vocals to convey the intensity of facing inner turmoil. The song opens with rain—a metaphor for confusion and gloom clouding the narrator’s mind. The chorus becomes the anchor, with thunder symbolizing mental chaos and flashes of light representing internal fire. Musically, I used powerful guitars and vocals to match this imagery.
The second verse deepens the narrator’s sense of isolation, leading to a "lake of tears," symbolizing buried emotions. I emphasized a slower, grungier sound to reflect the introspective tone. The bridge introduces a sense of eerie calm, as the narrator confronts past memories and starts to let go. Softer melodies and vulnerable vocals signal a shift toward healing.
By the outro, the storm subsides, and a new dawn emerges. The lyrics reflect quiet resolution, while lighter instrumentation conveys hope. River of Pain was an exploration of emotional depth, balancing intensity with vulnerability. The result felt authentic, capturing both the storm and the calm within.