Walking the Field of asphodel: a Seventeen—Year Journey

Thank you for being interested in my journey.

Field of Asphodel was a huge undertaking for me. The project began roughly seventeen years ago, when I first set out to create a comic book set in a magical world—one filled with dreams, inner contemplation, and symbolic language drawn from the language of flowers: Diospyros—Resistance; Laurus—Glory; Silene nocturna—Night, and many others.

Although a comic book was assembled soon after, I gradually felt the limitations of the medium. The writing had to be simplified to serve the illustrations, and the energy required for each illustrated panel was immense. Asphodel needs to be approached differently—perhaps from the other way around, I remember thinking about twelve years ago.

Now, twelve years later, Field of Asphodel—the novel—is finally ready to be shared. Not only as a book with illustrations, but also accompanied by a full original soundtrack.

Original Concept for the House of Ark at Nirvana.

The Inspiration Behind the Book

I love powerful stories that touch the soul. I grew up reading books such as The NeverEnding Story, The Earthsea Quartet, and His Dark Materials, along with works by many influential authors. I was deeply moved by each character’s inner struggle—their strengths and weaknesses—and by passages so beautiful they brought tears and moments of realization.

My writing deepened tremendously after yoga entered my life. Through the study of powerful scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita, the Katha Upanishad, and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, I felt I had glimpsed the true inner workings of the soul. These teachings eventually became the spiritual backbone of Field of Asphodel.

Personal Experiences

At first glance, everything may seem random—but in hindsight, it all fits together as if destined. My degree in Biology at Queen’s University trained me to understand human physiology and internal systems. A subsequent diploma in Illustration gave me the tools to draw and create visually. Later, running a design studio focused on fashion illustration refined my eye for beauty and decorative detail.

My continued studies in Computer Animation led me into the Visual Effects industry, where I worked for fifteen years across film and television. That experience trained my eye for realism, real-world physics, and the ability to work in high-stress environments.

Eventually, I left the VFX industry and immersed myself fully in yoga. After two years of teaching, I was given the opportunity to become the director of INYE Yoga Studio. Stepping into this role felt deeply aligned with my path, and it allowed me to witness human devotion, suffering, and the beauty of self-realization on a daily basis.

In many ways, Field of Asphodel reflects my personal journey. I hope that you will find resonance within its characters and themes.

Universal Themes

Field of Asphodel can be read purely as a high-fantasy novel, but it can also be approached as a reflection on the choices we face during life’s most challenging moments. Each character walks a unique path of growth, evolution, and—at times—redemption. Walk alongside them, and you may discover something that invites your own contemplation.

The Writing Process

If you ever saw a man on the subway or in a coffee shop, iPad in hand, typing intensely and occasionally staring into space—that was likely me. Many parts of Asphodel were written on the Toronto subway, often on my way to teach a yoga class. There were more than a few embarrassing moments when I missed my stop and had to exit and cross to the opposite platform.

I also loved writing in coffee shops, especially those inside bookstores. Reading, writing, and people-watching often blended together, and many dialogue ideas emerged from these moments, giving my characters their own distinct voices.

Setting a Routine

My work never truly allowed for a fixed writing routine. After teaching or working, I would sit at my desk and write—often late into the night. I still remember one evening when I noticed the sky beginning to brighten at 5 a.m., only to realize I had to teach again in just a few hours.

Whenever I found spare moments, I dove back into the world of Asphodel, journeying alongside my characters. Watching everything gradually come together has been one of the most fulfilling and exciting experiences of my life.

Overcoming Challenges

The greatest challenge in writing Field of Asphodel wasn’t the characters or the trials they faced—it was language. The story spans different timelines, and each demanded its own voice. I drew inspiration from Agatha Christie’s Poirot series, set around 1936 in London. Ensuring that dialogue felt era-appropriate and authentic was one of the most demanding aspects of the process.

Seeking Feedback

I shared the manuscript with a small circle of trusted friends, but most importantly, my partner played an essential role throughout countless revisions.

He is an avid reader of both classical and contemporary literature, and I am grateful for his honest and constructive feedback. I truly believe Field of Asphodel would not be what it is today without his insight and support.

What Readers Can Expect

This is a story set in a world that remembers magic and humanity’s deep connection to nature. The characters carry layered emotions, guided—or misguided—devotions, love, and sacrifice. My hope is that you will resonate with Field of Asphodel, and perhaps rediscover the beauty of balance within yourself.

I invite you to join me on this journey. Whether you are a seasoned reader or new to my work, I encourage you to pick up a copy when the book releases. Your support means more to me than I can express, and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts.

Let’s embark on this journey together.