🌀 "Déjà Vu" 🕯️ & Book Bounty

Book Cover: 'Deja Vu'

Greetings fellow seekers!

In our journey of spiritual awareness, we often encounter stories that challenge our perspectives and invite deeper reflection.

Recently, I discovered a fascinating platform called Book Bounty, a space where authors and readers connect in a truly collaborative way.

It's here that I stumbled upon a book that raised metaphysical questions: "Deja Vu: The Tragedy of Love: Love is a Ghost" by Sebastian Vientosalvaje. This novel, a haunting exploration of fate and free will, has sparked some thoughts, and I'm eager to share them with you.

"Déjà Vu" is a captivating tragedy, a compelling yet unsettling mix of self-exploration, spiritual inquiries, and a journey into metaphysics. The story centers on two pivotal characters: Sebastián, a man grappling with a troubled past, and Father Antonio, a priest wrestling with his own demons. The author weaves their narratives together, creating a strong sense of atmosphere and mystery.

The shadow of doubt.

The novel delves into the age-old question of fate versus free will, presenting a world where destiny seems to hold an iron grip. The concept of 'déjà vu' isn't just a fleeting sensation; it's a thematic core, suggesting that life unfolds in cyclical patterns, repeating mistakes and reliving predetermined fates. This is especially evident in Father Antonio's journey, which feels like a tragic loop, a relentless repetition of past failures.

The most intriguing aspect of the book is its exploration of repetitiveness through a wheel of destiny. The story doesn't portray fate as a singular endpoint, but as an endless cycle, a pattern of behavior that characters are doomed to repeat. This adds a tragic dimension to the concept of human existence. Furthermore, while the characters, particularly Father Antonio, seem to have some freedom to make choices, yet those choices ultimately lead them back to the same tragic outcomes.

A dreamscape of fate

The author skillfully uses surreal and grotesque elements to enhance the story's atmosphere. The hints of supernatural or otherworldly forces, especially at Stop 666, create a palpable sense of suspense. The character of the mysterious Lena, in particular, is shrouded in enigma, suggesting she might be an agent of karmic justice or a pawn in a larger higher power's game.

Who is she, and where is she going?

Father Antonio's search for Lena becomes a metaphor for his own struggle against guilt and doubt. His vulnerabilities and the choices he makes, even if seemingly limited by fate, still lead him not to the light, but to a return to bitter darkness. The book also raises speculative questions about gender roles and power dynamics, particularly in its portrayal of women as potentially dangerous and manipulative. While this perspective is controversial, it prompts reflection on societal expectations and the complexities of human relationships.

While the overall narrative is powerful, I believe some minor editing improvements, particularly in the beginning, could enhance the reader's experience. Also, the heavy-handed use of religious symbolism could be more nuanced.

Despite these minor critiques, 'Déjà Vu' is a thought-provoking story that explores complex themes with depth and nuance. It's a tragedy that lingers in the mind, prompting reflection on the nature of fate, free will, and the human condition.

On Book Bounty, I've also shared my novels. 

My Novel: Redemption

Notably, "Redemption: Sci-fi Spiritual Journey through Time and Reincarnation" directly promotes the power of free will over the constraints of blind destiny, offering a contrasting perspective.

It's a testament to the diverse voices and themes found within this literary community.

Book Bounty fosters a collaborative spirit, bridging the gap between authors and readers. It's a valuable space for exploring also spiritual themes in literature.

#BookReview, #DejaVuNovel, #FateVsFreeWill, #MetaphysicalFiction, #BookBounty, #SpiritualAwareness, #RedemptionNovel, #SciFiSpiritual, #FreeWill, #IndieAuthor, #BookLovers, #AuthorCommunity, #SpiritualFiction, #Metaphysics

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Double the Excitement: "Melissa" Attracts Two Industry Reads! 🎬

 

Evil takes many forms. Discover Melissa's secret.

Hi everyone,

I'm thrilled to share some exciting news! 

My screenplay-turned-novel, "Melissa," has received not just one, but two read requests on Script Revolution! This is a huge moment, and I'm so grateful to share it with all of you.

As many of you know, "Melissa" began its life as a screenplay. Last year, I was incredibly fortunate to see it transform into a novel, a journey that was both challenging and rewarding. Now, it feels like the screenplay is stepping back into the spotlight!

I received a read request from Plastic Spoon Pictures as you can see from the screenshot below.

The journey continues! 'Melissa' is attracting industry attention

I immediately granted them access. It's incredibly validating to have industry professionals interested in my work.

But that's not all! I also received a request from Morgan Routt, a writer/cinematographer/director based in Lexington, KY. 

Morgan specializes in horror and thriller, which aligns perfectly with "Melissa's" themes.

Here's a glimpse of the scene that caught the attention of industry readers:

A peek into the unsettling transformation scene

And here's another glimpse into the unfolding mystery:

And here's another glimpse into the unfolding mystery

Script Revolution is a fantastic platform that connects writers with producers, directors, and other industry professionals. It's a place where scripts can be discovered, and I'm immensely grateful for the opportunity to have "Melissa" considered by not just one, but two potential collaborators.

Script Revolution is connecting writers with industry pros

Of course, I did my due diligence and checked out both Plastic Spoon Pictures and Morgan Routt's profiles. They both seem like a great fit, and I'm genuinely excited to see what they think of "Melissa." 

The waiting game has begun!

These requests are certainly encouraging, and I'm eager to see what comes of them. "Melissa" has been a long journey, and it's rewarding to see this new chapter unfold. 

I'm particularly grateful for the support of my script doctors, whose insights were instrumental in shaping the screenplay.  Learning the craft of screenwriting is an ongoing process, and their guidance has been invaluable. 

This is a significant validation of the hard work and passion that went into creating "Melissa," both as a screenplay and as a novel. 

Thank you for your continued support!  The "Melissa" novel is available HERE. 

The truth lies within. Will you uncover Melissa's secret?

I'll share updates as they become available.

#MelissaNovel #availableNow #bookstagram #horrorbooks #thrillerbooks #ScriptRevolution #readrequest #indiefilm #horror #thriller #writingcommunity #amwriting #indieauthor #screenwritingcommunity #JacklynaLo #MorganRoutt #filmmaker

Why Pride? Part XII. The Dual Nature of National Identity ➕➖

What emotions do you see in this face?

National pride, while a potentially positive force, can become dangerous when it morphs into national chauvinism – an excessive and unfounded sense of superiority based on one's national identity. This can lead to a disregard for other nations and cultures, and sometimes even xenophobic attitudes.

Manifestations of False Pride

Glory's empty shell

                                    

Here are some examples that illustrate false pride at the national level:

• Exaggerating National Achievements: Boasting about a country’s accomplishments without acknowledging the contributions of other nations or recognizing global efforts.
• Denying National Shortcomings: Refusing to acknowledge or address issues within one’s own country, such as social injustices or historical wrongdoings.
• Disparaging Other Cultures: Belittling or mocking other cultures and traditions, claiming one’s own national culture is superior.
• Overzealous Patriotism: Insisting that one’s country is always right and refusing to see the validity of other countries’ perspectives or policies.

Historical Examples of Dictatorships Impacted by False Pride

Echoes of Empire

These examples illustrate the severe consequences unchecked national pride, often fueled by dictatorial leaders, can have on their nations, people, and humanity as a whole:

• Nazi Germany: National chauvinism played a significant role in the rise of Hitler’s Nazi Germany. Dictators often cultivate this false pride by exaggerating national achievements, demonizing other nations, and suppressing dissent, all to consolidate their power. This manipulation of national sentiment was evident in Nazi Germany's use of propaganda to promote Aryan supremacy, ultimately leading to horrific acts against humanity, including the Holocaust.
• Joseph Stalin's Soviet Union: Stalin's dictatorship in the Soviet Union is another example of hubris. His ruthless pursuit of absolute power and the forced collectivization of agriculture resulted in widespread famine, mass purges, and the suffering of millions.
• Mao Zedong's China: Mao's rule in China, particularly during the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, showcased how a leader's pride provided a damaging national ideology that led to disastrous policies, and the liquidation of the best people of the nation, causing famine (one of them "The Holodomor") and social upheaval.
• Kim Jong-un's North Korea: In modern times, North Korea under the Kim dynasty is a prime example of a dictatorship where the ruling family's pride and cult of personality have resulted in human rights abuses, terrible poverty, and a closed society.
• Saddam Hussein's Iraq: Saddam Hussein's regime in Iraq was marked by authoritarianism, false pride, and brutal suppression of dissent, leading to conflicts such as the Gulf War.

Positive Expressions of National Pride

Running for freedom, justice, and equality

However, national pride can also be a powerful and positive force when it’s inclusive and grounded in universal values such as freedom, justice, equality, and respect for human rights. Here are some examples:

• Civic Nationalism

Success and challenges: The story of Singapore's civic nationalism

 This form of pride is inclusive and open to all who respect a country’s institutions and laws. For example, Singapore offers a highly successful model of civic nationalism where national identity transcends ethnic divisions. The country explicitly promotes a multiracial, meritocratic society where citizens are united by commitment to national goals, economic development, and core legal/political principles. It's important to note, however, that Singapore has faced criticism regarding freedom of speech and other civil liberties.

• Cultural Achievements

Music unites us

Pride in a nation’s cultural heritage, such as literature, music, art, and historical achievements, can foster a sense of unity and identity. The Eurovision Song Contest serves as an example of peaceful competition based on the equality of all participants, independent of country of origin.

• Scientific and Technological Advancements

Reaching for the stars

Celebrating a nation’s contributions to science and technology can inspire true pride and encourage future innovations. The United States cultivates pride in Silicon Valley as a global technology epicenter, NASA's space exploration achievements, and its leading role in computer science, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research.

• Sports: Athletic competitions, like the Olympics, often bring a sense of healthy national pride as citizens cheer for their country’s athletes.
• Humanitarian Efforts

From fjords to global aid

Norway stands as a global humanitarian leader, donating the highest amount of humanitarian aid per capita worldwide. With just 5.4 million citizens, Norway's commitment to international support is remarkable, transforming national wealth into global compassion. While Norway is a humanitarian leader, it's important to acknowledge that it faces its own set of societal challenges.

These examples reflect how national pride, when focused on universal values and achievements, can contribute to a positive sense of identity and community at the national level, bringing wealth and prosperity to all. Ultimately, the challenge lies in cultivating a sense of national pride that celebrates a nation's achievements while remaining grounded in universal values and respect for the global community.

But what happens when group pride takes a darker turn?  Explore the dangers of group hubris, a key factor in the rise of national chauvinism, in Part X of the "Why Pride?" series.

Conclusion

Explore the ruins of Nathan's ambition.

National pride can be a force for good or ill. My psycho-thriller "Melissa" explores a different kind of pride, but one with equally powerful consequences. Find out more at https://rbjal.com/melissa.

#NationalPride #Nationalism #FalsePride #MelissaNovel #ScienceFiction #SciFi #BlogPost #WritingCommunity, #FalsePride, #Chauvinism, #Xenophobia