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May 11, 2025

iServalan with Danni Minogue Jump to the Beat, 1991, Blink Friction Radio


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The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition





The Book of Immersion: Volume 1
by Sarnia de la Mare

In a future where code meets consciousness, one being begins a haunting transformation. Renyke—an AI on the edge of humanity—awakens to emotion, sensory overload, and the fragile beauty of connection. Guided by the enigmatic Flex, their deepening bond explores intimacy and friendship, neurodivergence, and the complex world of feeling through an autistic spectrum lens.



Read on Kindle Unlimited for free



Individual Chapters/Strata






May 9, 2025

What makes a good story? The things you need to know before you start writing that novel



"The Universal Thread: Elements All Good Stories Share"

Introduction:

Stories have been an integral part of human culture since time immemorial. From ancient myths and legends to modern novels and films, storytelling is a universal language that transcends boundaries. While each story may have its unique plot and characters, there are certain elements that consistently make a narrative compelling and unforgettable. In this blog, we'll explore the common threads that bind all good stories together, weaving a tapestry that captivates audiences across time and cultures.

Relatable Characters: At the heart of every memorable story are characters that resonate with the audience. Whether it's the hero's journey or the anti-hero's redemption, characters with depth and relatability draw readers or viewers into the narrative. Flaws, struggles, and triumphs make characters authentic and evoke empathy.


Engaging Plot: A well-crafted plot is the backbone of any good story. It's the roadmap that takes the audience on a journey, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises. A balance of conflict, resolution, and rising action keeps the audience invested, eager to discover what happens next.


Conflict and Resolution: Conflict is the fuel that propels a story forward. Whether it's internal or external, the challenges characters face create tension and drive the narrative. However, it's the resolution of these conflicts that satisfies the audience, providing a sense of closure and fulfillment.


Emotional Resonance: The most memorable stories evoke a range of emotions, from joy and laughter to sorrow and fear. Emotional resonance is what connects the audience to the narrative on a deeper level. It's the reason why certain scenes or lines from a story linger in our minds long after we've finished reading or watching.


A Sense of Universality: While stories may be rooted in specific cultures, times, or places, the themes they explore often transcend these boundaries. The universal aspects of love, loss, courage, and the human condition make stories relevant to diverse audiences around the world.


Effective Pacing: Pacing is the rhythm of a story. It involves the careful balance of fast and slow moments, allowing the audience to absorb information, experience tension, and savor climactic scenes. Well-paced stories maintain the audience's interest and prevent them from becoming either overwhelmed or bored.


Thematic Depth: Beyond the surface narrative, good stories often delve into deeper themes that provoke thought and reflection. Whether exploring morality, identity, or the nature of existence, a layer of thematic depth elevates a story from mere entertainment to a work of art.


A Memorable Setting: The setting of a story serves as its backdrop, creating the world in which characters live and events unfold. A vivid and immersive setting enhances the overall experience, making the story more memorable and transporting the audience to new and exciting realms.

Conclusion:

In the vast tapestry of storytelling, these common elements serve as the threads that bind diverse narratives together. Whether through the trials of relatable characters, the twists of a well-crafted plot, or the emotional resonance that lingers, good stories leave an indelible mark on the human psyche. As storytellers continue to weave their tales, understanding and embracing these universal elements can guide the creation of narratives that stand the test of time.
Immerse yourself in our books.

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book cover female army warrior

The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition





The Book of Immersion: Volume 1
by Sarnia de la Mare

In a future where code meets consciousness, one being begins a haunting transformation. Renyke—an AI on the edge of humanity—awakens to emotion, sensory overload, and the fragile beauty of connection. Guided by the enigmatic Flex, their deepening bond explores intimacy and friendship, neurodivergence, and the complex world of feeling through an autistic spectrum lens.



Read on Kindle Unlimited for free



Individual Chapters/Strata






Hormone Rush, digital painting by iServalan using Procreate and iPad pen.




In the midnight pulse of shadows,
where flesh meets ink,
you sit—
a tangle of sinew and thought,
of longing and fight,
caught in the throes of what it means
to become.


Your back arches against the weight
of unseen tides,
muscles taut as strings
plucked by hands made of flame.
This is no still life;
this is the storm,
the crack and hiss of lightning
in the marrow of your bones.


Blood rushes like rivers unbound,
hormones crashing against the walls
of your skin,
each surge a note in a symphony
of change.
You are the music,
the crescendo and the scream,
rising, falling,
in the rhythm of creation.


Ink drips down like sweat,
like tears,
like the remnants of who you were,
splattering the void,
marking your place in the chaos.
But it’s not the darkness you fear—
it’s the light,
that blinding flash of becoming
something more
than just a shadow.


You are the alchemy
of pain and pleasure,
the raw, untamed force
of nature’s will.
In this moment, you are everything
and nothing,
dissolving, reforming,
a creature of pure instinct
and divine design.


Breathe deep,
let the burn consume you.
For in the ashes of this moment,
you will find
the spark
of who you are meant to be.


Buy Artwork



This digital painting, created by iServalan for Tale Teller Club Books, captures a striking moment of raw, emotional intensity. The image is dominated by a figure, a man, who appears to be suspended between agony and ecstasy, his body bathed in stark contrasts of black and white. The high contrast and monochromatic palette give the painting a visceral, almost primal energy, as if the figure is emerging from or being consumed by the darkness around him.


The man's posture is both powerful and vulnerable. He sits cross-legged, his back arched, and his head thrown back in a gesture that suggests a release of deep-seated emotions—whether it is pain, rapture, or a mix of both is left to the viewer's interpretation. His muscles are taut, clearly defined by the sharp interplay of light and shadow, highlighting the tension within him. The texture of his skin appears almost liquid, as if his form is dissolving into or materializing from the abstract background.


The background itself is a chaotic blend of splattered, dripping black ink against a white canvas, giving the impression of a turbulent inner world or an external force pressing in on the figure. The abstract nature of the background contrasts sharply with the detailed depiction of the man, emphasizing his isolation within this tumultuous space. The splatters and drips could be interpreted as symbolic of the emotional or psychological turmoil that the figure is experiencing, as though he is in the midst of an existential struggle.


The overall composition of the painting evokes a sense of struggle, transformation, and transcendence. The figure seems to be caught in a moment of intense change—perhaps shedding an old identity or being reborn into a new one. The dramatic use of light and shadow, the dynamic lines, and the abstract background all contribute to a feeling of catharsis, making this work a powerful visual representation of the complexities of the human condition.


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Immerse yourself in our books.

#BookOfImmersion #StrataSeries #SarniaDeLaMare #ImmersiveFiction #TaleTellerClub

Book Cover Immersion Series Shabra

The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition




Individual Chapters/Strata








The Rise of the Artisan: From the Arts and Crafts Movement to Modern Makers

 

patchwork sewing stitching label brand handmade

The Rise of the Artisan: From the Arts and Crafts Movement to Modern Makers

The world of handcrafted goods has a rich history, rooted in the creative and social ideals of the Arts and Crafts Movement of the late 19th century. This movement emerged as a response to the mass production and industrialization of the time, which resulted in poor-quality goods and the alienation of the individual worker. Pioneers like William Morris championed a return to craftsmanship, emphasizing the beauty of handwork and the moral, personal, and social value of meaningful labor.

Today, in the era of hyper-consumption and fast fashion, the artisan is experiencing a rebirth. Despite the dominance of mass-produced, low-cost goods—often imported from China and other manufacturing hubs—artisans are thriving by tapping into a cultural shift toward sustainability, quality, and authenticity.

A Brief Commercial History of the Arts and Crafts Movement

The Arts and Crafts Movement was driven by a philosophy that sought to integrate art into everyday life. The founders, frustrated with the soulless nature of industrialized manufacturing, believed that beautifully crafted objects, made with care and attention, should be accessible to everyone. Morris and other artists like John Ruskin and Charles Robert Ashbee promoted workshops and guilds where craftspeople could take pride in their skill and produce items of enduring value. These ideals spread throughout Europe and America, leading to the establishment of successful artisan businesses and cooperatives that offered handmade furniture, textiles, ceramics, and more.

However, the economic reality of this ideal was a challenge. The prices of handcrafted goods were naturally higher than their mass-produced counterparts, and many artisans struggled to sustain themselves in a market flooded with cheap imports. Nonetheless, the movement laid the groundwork for today's artisan resurgence, as the values it championed—craftsmanship, quality, sustainability—are now being embraced once more.

Trends and Marketing in the Artisan Rebirth

The return of the artisan in the 21st century is fueled by several converging trends:

  • Sustainability and Ethical Consumption: Conscious consumers are increasingly seeking goods that are ethically made, sustainable, and durable. Fast fashion, characterized by disposable items produced in environmentally harmful conditions, is losing favor with a growing segment of the population.
  • Customization and Personalization: In an era of uniformity, handmade goods offer uniqueness. Artisans can create bespoke items that reflect the personal tastes of their customers, offering an experience that mass production simply can't replicate.
  • Nostalgia and Tradition: There’s a rising interest in heritage, vintage, and traditional skills. Whether it’s handmade pottery, custom leather goods, or handcrafted textiles, consumers are drawn to the stories behind the makers and their methods.
  • Digital Platforms and Social Media: One of the key differences between the original Arts and Crafts movement and today’s artisan resurgence is the role of digital technology. Artisans can now sell globally through platforms like Etsy, Instagram, and eBay, gaining exposure far beyond their local communities.

The Challenges of Competing with Low-Cost Imports

Despite this renaissance, artisans face immense competition from low-cost imports, primarily from countries like China. Mass-produced goods, often made under less rigorous labor and environmental conditions, flood markets at prices that handmade items can't match. The key for artisans in staying competitive is not to try to beat these imports on price, but to emphasize the value they bring in terms of:

  • Quality: Artisans produce goods that last, a sharp contrast to the planned obsolescence of mass-produced items.
  • Storytelling: Successful artisans often excel at building a personal connection with their customers, sharing the story behind each product and offering a sense of transparency and authenticity.
  • Exclusivity: Handmade goods are often produced in limited quantities, which enhances their appeal as unique, collectible items.

Artisan Businesses Thriving Today

Several contemporary artisan businesses serve as shining examples of how to stay current and creative in a market dominated by mass production:

  • The New Craftsmen, based in London, works with artisans across the UK, celebrating traditional British craftsmanship. Their focus on heritage, coupled with modern design sensibilities, keeps them relevant in both local and international markets.
  • Heath Ceramics, founded in the mid-20th century and still thriving today, is known for its artisanal approach to ceramics, creating timeless, functional homewares that resonate with today’s slow-living ethos.
  • Handmade by Sarnia, an integral part of the Elderescence Lifestyle Project, exemplifies the modern artisan approach, creating exquisite fashion items from recycled materials. With a focus on sustainability and creativity, Sarnia's work demonstrates that handmade fashion can be both eco-friendly and luxurious. Items are sold through eBay and the blog, offering accessibility to a global audience while maintaining the exclusivity of one-of-a-kind craftsmanship.

Staying Current in a Competitive Market

For today’s artisans, success depends on balancing tradition with innovation. Many artisan businesses thrive by adopting the following strategies:

  • Engaging with Customers Directly: Social media platforms like Instagram offer artisans a way to connect directly with their audience, building relationships and engaging with buyers in a more personal way than ever before.
  • Collaborations and Partnerships: Teaming up with like-minded brands or businesses can introduce artisans to new audiences and create products that resonate with a wider range of consumers.
  • Diversifying Sales Channels: From selling at local craft fairs to maintaining a presence on global platforms like Etsy, artisans can expand their reach without sacrificing their identity.

The rise of the artisan in today's market is more than a trend—it is a response to the modern consumer’s desire for meaning, quality, and connection. Artisans like those at Handmade by Sarnia are leading this charge, proving that creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship still have a place in a world of fast fashion and low-cost imports. They are part of a growing movement that values what’s unique and personal, keeping the spirit of the original Arts and Crafts movement alive in a fresh, contemporary context.


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Immerse yourself in our books.

#BookOfImmersion #StrataSeries #SarniaDeLaMare #ImmersiveFiction #TaleTellerClub

Book Cover Immersion Series Shabra

The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition




Individual Chapters/Strata






Introducing the Elderescence: A Fusion of Art, Wellness, and Creativity


Introducing the Elderescence: A Fusion of Art, Wellness, and Creativity

The Elderescence Music School is not just another platform for learning music—it’s a revolutionary initiative where music meets wellness, creativity, and intellectual growth. Founded under the Elderescence Lifestyle Project, this school brings a unique blend of music education and holistic development to students of all ages and backgrounds.
What Sets Elderescence Music School Apart?

At the heart of the Elderescence Music School is the belief that music is more than just a skill—it’s a pathway to personal transformation. The school offers an extensive curriculum that covers:

Music Lessons: Whether you're a beginner or an advanced musician, the Elderescence Music School provides expert instruction in a variety of instruments and vocal training.


Music Therapies: Using the healing power of sound, the school integrates music therapies to promote mental and physical well-being. This approach is particularly beneficial for reducing stress, enhancing mood, and improving cognitive function.


Music Theory and Composition: Students are introduced to the building blocks of music, learning how to read, write, and create their own compositions. This fosters creativity and deeper musical understanding.


History of Music and World Music: To enrich the learning experience, the school offers lessons in the cultural and historical contexts of music, introducing students to diverse genres from around the globe.

The school’s approach to wellness extends beyond just music. It fosters an ethos of creative intellectualism, where music is seen as a gateway to exploring one’s higher self and enhancing emotional well-being.
Where to Find Elderescence Music School

Elderescence Music School is conveniently available through Handmade by Sarnia and in collaboration with the Suzuki School's online facility. For those looking to explore the school before committing, there are free lessons and educational shorts available on the Elderescence Music School YouTube channel, making music education accessible to all.

Whether you're looking to improve your musical skills, explore new sounds from around the world, or simply enrich your mind and spirit through creative practice, the Elderescence Music School is a transformative journey waiting to happen.

Join us in this new era of music education—one where learning, wellness, and creativity come together in harmony



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#elderescence #wellbeing #therapy #thirdage #sarniadelamare
                  

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Book cover anime graphic novel Shabra

The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

Book 19 of 23: The Book of Immersion


See all formats and editions


The Book of Immersion: Volume 1
by Sarnia de la Mare

In a future where code meets consciousness, one being begins a haunting transformation. Renyke—an AI on the edge of humanity—awakens to emotion, sensory overload, and the fragile beauty of connection. Guided by the enigmatic Flex, their deepening bond explores intimacy and friendship, neurodivergence, and the complex world of feeling through an autistic spectrum lens.


Read on Kindle Unlimited for free


Complete Book All Strata on Kindle

Individual Chapters/Strata


Strata 1
Strata 2
Strata 3
Strata 4
Strata 5
Strata 6
Strata 7
Strata 8
Strata 9
Strata 10
Strata 11
Strata 12
Strata 13
Strata 14
Strata 15
Strata 16
Strata 17
Strata 18
Strata 19
Strata 20
Strata 21
Strata 22



iServalan with Carol Bayer Sager I'd Rather Leave While I'm In Love 1977...


#BookOfImmersion #StrataSeries #SarniaDeLaMare #ImmersiveFiction #TaleTellerClub  


Book cover anime graphic novel Shabra

The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

Book 19 of 23: The Book of Immersion


See all formats and editions


The Book of Immersion: Volume 1
by Sarnia de la Mare

In a future where code meets consciousness, one being begins a haunting transformation. Renyke—an AI on the edge of humanity—awakens to emotion, sensory overload, and the fragile beauty of connection. Guided by the enigmatic Flex, their deepening bond explores intimacy and friendship, neurodivergence, and the complex world of feeling through an autistic spectrum lens.


Read on Kindle Unlimited for free


Complete Book All Strata on Kindle

Individual Chapters/Strata


Strata 1
Strata 2
Strata 3
Strata 4
Strata 5
Strata 6
Strata 7
Strata 8
Strata 9
Strata 10
Strata 11
Strata 12
Strata 13
Strata 14
Strata 15
Strata 16
Strata 17
Strata 18
Strata 19
Strata 20
Strata 21
Strata 22



May 6, 2025

Mr Grumps, the audio bomber of all my podcasts! #persiancat



#BookOfImmersion #StrataSeries #SarniaDeLaMare #ImmersiveFiction #TaleTellerClub  


Book cover anime graphic novel Shabra

The Book of Immersion : Volume 1 Kindle Edition
by Sarnia de la Mare (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

Book 19 of 23: The Book of Immersion


See all formats and editions


The Book of Immersion: Volume 1
by Sarnia de la Mare

In a future where code meets consciousness, one being begins a haunting transformation. Renyke—an AI on the edge of humanity—awakens to emotion, sensory overload, and the fragile beauty of connection. Guided by the enigmatic Flex, their deepening bond explores intimacy and friendship, neurodivergence, and the complex world of feeling through an autistic spectrum lens.


Read on Kindle Unlimited for free


Complete Book All Strata on Kindle

Individual Chapters/Strata


Strata 1
Strata 2
Strata 3
Strata 4
Strata 5
Strata 6
Strata 7
Strata 8
Strata 9
Strata 10
Strata 11
Strata 12
Strata 13
Strata 14
Strata 15
Strata 16
Strata 17
Strata 18
Strata 19
Strata 20
Strata 21
Strata 22