A long time coming...
As most things do, Dreamside has changed over the years since its initial concept written back in 2003. I still remember the mental picture that would develop into a much more complex story: a child stuck in a hospital waving to a mysterious flying stranger outside her window. Something about it resonated with me and I've held fast to that feeling, ensuring it stayed a part of Dreamside no matter how much the story might change.
Chapter 4 is the first yet to fully exhibit this fundamental side of the story. At its heart, Dreamside is many things. And, it's about some deep concepts that go far beyond joyful whimsy. But, in order to appreciate them, I want to first fall in love with these characters and this world.
There's no feeling quite like leaving it all behind. The freedom. The carefree reverie. It's great, even if it only happens in our own mind. Chapter 4 is the start of this experience for Sarah, the ultimate daydreamer. Dreamside is a vast, impossibly wonderful place. It will be the setting for Sarah's transformation. I can't wait for you to see what's in store...
Some quick production notes:
Orka Veer has once again written a gorgeous, fitting score. Several months ago, we discussed ideas for this chapter's music. Eventually, we decided to try something unusual: a "four-on-the-floor" dance beat. When I lived in Los Angeles, I got to visit some exciting dance clubs. It was a powerful and energizing experience to lose myself for a night, dancing until the morning hours. In a way, it's a sort of escape from the stresses of everyday life. So an exciting, driving beat felt right for the chapter. To a lesser but notable degree, it also serves as a sort of homage to "Bastian's Happy Flight" from The Neverending Story, one of Dreamside's primary inspirations.
I feel like I say this every time, but I just love Lilly Bridge's amazing narration. She does such a great job capturing the nuances of each scene. Her passion for her work is evident and the project is so much richer because of it.
Paul made some strong editing suggestions in this chapter's prose. I'm still learning an awful lot about writing. I'm particularly pleased with his refinement of the wording at the end of the chapter.
Please let me know what you think of Chapter 4. Your thoughts are important to me. Please share with your friends and family. Sarah's adventure is just beginning. I feel like my own is as well. I hope you'll come with us for the whole journey!