Process:

1) Draft an outline of 3 chapters, each with different sub-goals

2) Write the text on paper; complete 1-2 editing drafts

3) Transfer to Twine

4) Implement Twine logic to help execute the story

Draft:
The story is broken into 3 chapters. Each has a different overall goal -
1 is to introduce the reader into the mind of the character and what is immediately going on with them;
2 provides context and memories for the user;
3 concludes the story by returning to the present as the character unravels and ultimately, ends the story.

Write/Transfer: I spent about 3 months writing, editing, and re-writing this. At first, it was a story of a student trying to decide what to do with their life. But I wasn't writing something that I felt mattered. This story was a result of changing the emotional core from relative hope to complete separation and sadness. I felt this was the truth of the story, so The Unseen was born. 

I wrote the story on paper, marking where Twine's logic could help create more impact, then I copied it in Twine.
 

Implement: Afterwards, I added the logic, researching custom logic that could work. Ultimately, the story's logic is simple. Attempts to make it more layered or branching confused readers and took away from the narrative's goals.
 

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Why this story: I wanted to write something that anyone could relate to. After reading this, I wanted people to feel something and to convey the hopelessness that I and others felt during the pandemic. This story isn't designed to be happy. I had my past professors read it, and they were moved. They read it and felt compelled to help students, something I wanted the narrative to do.

A lot of this style is less direct, it's written as if the character is talking out loud, regardless of whether you are there or not. This style took a bit to hone, and it's not perfect. But I hope this story is as moving to you as it was for me and others who read it. 


Trigger warning: story contains mention of suicide, and self-harm, and contains curse words.