Many years ago, I wrote a short story I still care about deeply. In a way, it was experimental. I wrote and published it in Italian, a heavily gendered language, yet I chose to tell it in the first person and carefully avoided any reference to the protagonist’s gender. What mattered to me was their inner experience: it was an introspective drama, the story of someone who slowly, painfully, learned how to love life again.
This is a very small interactive project that tries to recapture that kind of emotional introspection. It’s very short; you won’t need more than fifteen minutes to read it in its entirety, every path included, but it’s something I wanted to share with you nonetheless.
By the Sea is an atmospheric, very short story exploring the fragile human psyche. Navigate the shoreline of your thoughts, confront your inner struggles, and find solace (or surrender!) under the pale glow of the moon.
Featuring:
A reflective, emotionally driven narrative that responds to your choices.
Dual ambient audio tracks: the gentle lapping of the sea and a soft, gentle melody.
Customisable text experience with font controls for readability and accessibility.
Two diverging paths shaped by your inner conflicts and decisions.
A dreamlike, very short story: reading every path will take you no more than 15-20 minutes.
⚠ Content Warning: This story deals with themes of depression, suicidal thoughts, and trauma. Reader discretion is advised. If you are struggling, please reach out to a trusted friend or mental health professional.
► Read it here ◄
