Acknowledgements Kim, for being the constant ray of light that guided my every path. Thank you for helping me see the wider scheme of things. Without your insight and logic, I would have remained wandering around in doubt and worry, and wouldn’t have made it to the end of the tunnel. Trizia and Rodney, for holding my hand and treading through the darkness with me. You kept me sane and grounded despite the countless conundrums I had in the making of this folio. Also, for believing in me and for simply being there—the both of you made the void bearable and comforting in a way. Alvin and Disney, for striking the match that allowed me to build the hearth from which this folio was created. I will always be grateful for having both of you as my mentors—I would’ve never become the writer I am today if it weren’t for the two of you. Thank you for arduously sustaining the flame that I had within myself. I will forever cherish the spark that you ignited for me. Hezron, for holding up the torch that shed light in the chasm—letting me see the penumbra that lurked in its recesses. I can never express my gratitude for your counsel all throughout the journey of creating this folio. I would’ve never delved into the depths and saw things in a different light if it weren’t for your unceasing encouragement and reassurance. Carl, Earl, Joshua, Star, and Tini, for seeing past the gray 72