Slamming the Breaks on Chaos Kishōtenketsu (起承転結) and why I love it.

 I watched a video on the differences between the Western 3 act-structure/Hero's Journey and Asian concept of Kishotenketsu . The former revolves around conflict, while the latter does not. The best example of this for me to understand it, and as is shown in the video, are the Studio Ghibli films. They have moments of silent beauty that I have come to appreciate even more as an adult. To a Westerner who may be used to non-stop action, it may feel like nothing is happening in the films, but there's more to it than meets the eye. The films send this message that tells me to slow down and go touch grass, become more introspective, and give life--with all its ups and downs--a hug. 

I love this. 

I write under two pen names to separate the chaotic from the mundane, which I love. Rin Nocturne is my way of purging the chaos when I feel like I can't handle it and want to run away. Seraphine Vela is the mundane--even the hard stuff--that I'm constantly battling over and over in my heart. 

I'd like to write something with this kishotenketsu. I feel my brain resisting it, which means I should get into it even more. Especially in these times and society that we are alive in now--Some people aren't living in these times because they've been restricted or feel that way for many reasons.

I want to extend my hand to them through these words...maybe through some art. We're all struggling internally and many of us don't have a safety net. 

May I be one for you? Even if just for the time it takes you to read this blog post and give you a bit of hope that someone is here with you. 

Yeah, I want to focus on that in my next project for Seraphine Vela. It will take time, but I believe it will be worth it if I can make rainbows and sunshine, as cliché as that may be. 

Nothing brings me back to the 90s more than Kishōtenketsu (起承転結) and the feelings it creates. It makes me want to rest forever in those feelings.

Go watch some Studio Ghibli films. And then go watch this video on Kishōtenketsu (起承転結).