Strings of Memory

Afterword

Afterword

Hi! Welcome to my yapping session. Hahaha.

This is the part where I share with readers some behind-the-scenes details: what changed in the story, what remained, what inspired it, my thoughts on everything, and so on.

This story was originally published in 2018—six years ago, written in June of that year. Back then, only the prologue and first chapter were released before I decided to unpublish it, along with In the Shadow of Regret (formerly titled Regrets). Just like every other story I started on this account, I wasn't able to finish it. I only managed to write the Prologue and Chapter 1, with Chapter 2 left as a draft.

Now, I'm trying to complete the stories I once left unfinished because I want to share them with people who love reading—just like me.

This story took a different turn compared to In the Shadow of Regret, where the main character moved on with the help of a new potential love. This time, I decided not to take that route because it doesn't fit Wynther. Besides, I didn't want to reuse that idea. I wanted to create a story where the characters find healing on their own, without relying on a new love interest.

To be honest, I aspire to be the kind of writer who can make my readers cry. Not in a sadistic way! I just want to create stories that move people, stories that resonate. If I can achieve that, I'd consider it a sign that I wrote something truly meaningful. Hahaha.

I've read so many stories that touched my heart, and I want to be able to create something like that too. I hope I'll get there someday. And I guess you can take this as a confirmation na another tragic story na naman ang susunod kong isusulat. Hahaha. Just kidding.

Although, the next story I'm planning is quite dark, so it might end up being a tragedy. It's something I came up with during a difficult time in my life. I mean, I'm still struggling, but not as much as before. Or maybe I'll write the other story I have in mind—an action-themed one. Who knows? I'm still working through the plot for both. Once I've mapped out the details, I'll start writing right away.

Anyway, let's start.

The Idea

This story was inspired by a manga I read in high school. I wasn't happy with how the story went after the female lead died and was replaced by another girl. The manga was even named after the female lead, so I guess I was just bitter that someone else with the same name was introduced. Plus, the male lead started calling the original female lead by her full name after the new girl appeared. It felt like a distance had formed between them, and as a teenager at the time, I hated that she was "replaced," even though it was inevitable since she had died.

The Title

Originally, the title was supposed to be The Man Who Can't Be Moved because Wynther couldn't move on. But I changed it to Strings of Memory because this is a story about Wynther going through his memories—of the people and things he loves.

The Theme

I wanted this story to focus more on chasing your dreams—your passion—and doing everything you can to reach them.

The Plot

To be completely honest, I only had a clear vision of how this story would begin. So I brainstormed hard to figure out how everything would unfold.

I focused on making sure each chapter connected back to the moment Wynther writes the song—because that song is the reason he ultimately chooses to push forward and move on.

I also decided not to include a new love interest. This isn't a romance-focused story. It's about Wynther's memories, his dreams, and his passion—the things and people he cherishes.