What an unexpected (and excellent) Narcissus and Echo retelling! (I was a bit startled by the f-bomb, though.)
The company 'Bastion' taking after Sebastian's name was a particularly clever touch that hinted where the story was going and who he was...and then it finished up perfectly with Sebastian facing his own ultimate god: himself.
In a way, the f-bomb startled me too. I was writing the dialogue, and Sebastian, who wouldn't normally lose his cool, especially in front of an employee, just popped off. Because of everything that had happened with Echo, it seemed true, so I included it. I think now, perhaps there should have been more build to that point.
I've considered giving warnings for particular elements of my writing, but I've also read that such warnings can increase anxiety for readers. If you have any thoughts on that, I'd love to hear them.
Your compliments really mean so much to me. I love that you saw what this story was and that you were able to enjoy it. I know there are a lot of retold myths out there now, but I wanted to give it a try. Your Orpheus and Eurydice drawing made me want to try a retelling, but until I understand the end of that story, I'll have to let it rest.
It does make sense for the kind of person Sebastian is, for sure…!
I find that warnings actually help decrease anxiety, because I’m a “prepare me first” kind of person. Think of it like the ratings on a movie, you don’t need to say much except a brief content message so people can be informed. But if you were leaning away from adding them, I’ve seen both sides argued, and sometimes as a reader you just have to take content as it comes.
Oh, good retellings are so enjoyable. I like the style you’re exploring in these short stories, I find your plots are punchy and effective in their emotional impact (which is everything a short story should be). Have you read CS Lewis’ “Till We Have Faces”? It’s a fabulous and deeply psychological retelling of a particular Greek myth.
Thank you! Punchy and effective are definitely what I'm going for.
And thanks for the feedback on content warnings. I'll be exploring various ways of including them. I have a few ideas.
I have read "Till We Have Faces." It's one of my top 3 Lewis books. It was one of Lewis's favorites too, but it doesn't get as much attention as some of his other work. I feel I'm due to read it again now that I'm working on retellings of my own.
Nice work Jennifer! I love good science fiction and this is a wonderful entry into the genre.
Thanks very much, Nick! I appreciate you saying that.
Very nicely done!
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
What an unexpected (and excellent) Narcissus and Echo retelling! (I was a bit startled by the f-bomb, though.)
The company 'Bastion' taking after Sebastian's name was a particularly clever touch that hinted where the story was going and who he was...and then it finished up perfectly with Sebastian facing his own ultimate god: himself.
Thank you, Jess.
In a way, the f-bomb startled me too. I was writing the dialogue, and Sebastian, who wouldn't normally lose his cool, especially in front of an employee, just popped off. Because of everything that had happened with Echo, it seemed true, so I included it. I think now, perhaps there should have been more build to that point.
I've considered giving warnings for particular elements of my writing, but I've also read that such warnings can increase anxiety for readers. If you have any thoughts on that, I'd love to hear them.
Your compliments really mean so much to me. I love that you saw what this story was and that you were able to enjoy it. I know there are a lot of retold myths out there now, but I wanted to give it a try. Your Orpheus and Eurydice drawing made me want to try a retelling, but until I understand the end of that story, I'll have to let it rest.
It does make sense for the kind of person Sebastian is, for sure…!
I find that warnings actually help decrease anxiety, because I’m a “prepare me first” kind of person. Think of it like the ratings on a movie, you don’t need to say much except a brief content message so people can be informed. But if you were leaning away from adding them, I’ve seen both sides argued, and sometimes as a reader you just have to take content as it comes.
Oh, good retellings are so enjoyable. I like the style you’re exploring in these short stories, I find your plots are punchy and effective in their emotional impact (which is everything a short story should be). Have you read CS Lewis’ “Till We Have Faces”? It’s a fabulous and deeply psychological retelling of a particular Greek myth.
Thank you! Punchy and effective are definitely what I'm going for.
And thanks for the feedback on content warnings. I'll be exploring various ways of including them. I have a few ideas.
I have read "Till We Have Faces." It's one of my top 3 Lewis books. It was one of Lewis's favorites too, but it doesn't get as much attention as some of his other work. I feel I'm due to read it again now that I'm working on retellings of my own.
Loved it. Beautifully written.
Thank you Jean. I'm so happy you enjoyed it.