Thanks to the @ScienceFictionAmbassadors for adding my #speculativefiction #sci-fi #TheOneWhoEatsDreams to their #dystopocalypse reading list. The One Who Eats Dreams is a speculative fiction novelette, and a blend of fantasy, science fiction, and magical realism set in a dystopian South Africa, where the boundaries between dreams and reality blur. The story unfolds in a world marked by the rise of the Bubbles, shimmering domes that symbolise privilege, contrasting sharply with the struggles of those outside their confines. Central to the narrative is the legend of the Dream Eater, known as uMdli wephupho, (the one who eats dreams), a malevolent spirit that consumes dreams and has awakened due to the introduction of Dream Dust, a substance that offers an escape but leads to addiction and despair.
The prologue introduces the rich mythology surrounding the Dream Eater, describing how it once served as a guardian of dreams but became corrupted by darkness. As technology advances, the whispers of ancestral wisdom fade, leaving dreamers vulnerable to this insatiable hunger.
Review: The blending of African mythology with modern technology in "The One Who Eats Dreams" effectively captivates the imagination through its rich cultural context, emotional depth, and innovative storytelling. By exploring themes of identity, tradition versus modernity, and the consequences of escapism, the narrative invites readers on a thought-provoking journey that resonates on multiple levels. This unusual fusion not only enhances engagement but also encourages reflection on broader societal issues, making it an intriguing read for those interested in complex narratives that challenge conventional boundaries.
The upcoming novelette explores themes of addiction, loss, and the struggle between tradition and modernity as characters grapple with their realities and strive to reclaim their dreams from an encroaching darkness.
Willa and Melusi become: Mel-a. (Dedicated to you).
In this anthology series, Nietzsche's Ubermensch comes to life. His hair is nappy, his nose is broad, and his complexion kissed by the sun. With a clap of her hands, she causes hurricanes. As her fingers snap, time slows. He can speak and create, and she can dream and destroy. The Superman is real, and they are an African. In this anthology series, we'll bear witness not to their epic exploits, but to the mundane melancholies of life in a world where Black kids can stop bullets, read minds, and fly. Welcome to the Afro-Future, today!
Chapter 1: In "An Urban Legend Has It..." we meet Othello Richard Shannon, aka the super-speeding hero in a XXXL red hoodie, Dynamic! He didn't used to mind getting clowned in his civilian life since he has two A-One, Day-Ones that he can depend on to lift his spirits. But lately, this hero's been feeling like a third wheel.
Chapter 2: In "The Stupendous Adventures of the Super Union" a team of superheroes gathers for the funeral of one of their own, Aspiration. Tensions run high as they discuss the impromptu sexual assault trial that led to Aspiration's death and the dismissal of one of their teammates.
Chapter 3: In "Interrogation", young archivist Zaraz is asked to record and transcribe the interrogation of Regicide--the famous supervillain and archenemy of King Soul. The villain makes a lot of wild claims about King Soul's past, but surely they couldn't be true.
Chapter 4: in "CRISIS of Faith" It wasn't easy for humanity to accept the existence of superhumans. But our narrator was lucky enough to be born in a time of peace between those with and those without powers. There are systems in place which help keep interactions running smoothly. That's the intention, at least.