WAT is Zine? Issue 15: Media by watiszine

A film by Robert Luketic

LEGALLY BLONDE

A film by Josh Boone

The Fault in our Stars

WIZARDS WELCOME

Gorja Vasudev

IO ! B JE C T

bloody hell

XOXO

, Gossip Girl

(MUGGLES TOLERATED)

A Netflix Film

Gorja Vasudev

Okay?

Okay.

in omnia paratus

Gorja Vasudev

MURDER MYSTERY

A NETFLIX FILM

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before

Little Manhattan

the brightest witch of her age From: Lara Jean

Gorja Vasudev

To: Peter Kavinsky, Josh Sanderson, John Ambrose McClearen, Lucas James, Kenny Donati

Gorja Vasudev

Issue#15: Media June 2021 A John Hughes Film

A film by Randal Kleiser

GREASE

Sixteen Candles Gorja Vasudev

Harry Potter

the boy who

lived

Gorja Vasudev

Sa nd y

o uk yZ

D an

LIFE of PI “Tell me about it, Stud” Gorja Vasudev

A film by Nick Cassavetes

Gorja Vasudev

The The Notebook Notebook A film by Emile Ardolino

Alohomora

RONALD WEASLY incendio SNAPE

lumos HERMOINE GRANGER avada kedavra

Gorja Vasudev

A film by Garry Marshall

RUNAWAY BRIDE

Griffindor

Expecto patronum

HARRY potterhead POTTER Slytherin Rawenclaw

A film by Scott Speer

MIDNIGHT SUN

ALBUS DUMBOLDORE 3 hufflepuff HAGRID9 4

A Film by James Cameron

Gorja Vasudev

TITANIC

Carrie Pilby

A film by Justin Baldoni

FIVE FEET APART

A FILM BY BLAKE EDWARDS

A film by Gabriele Muccino

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

A film by Ken Kwapis

the PURSUIT of HAPPYNESS

A film by Amy Heckerling

CLUELESS

The SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS

Get a job Have a pet Go on a date

Gorja Vasudev

Based on a best-selling novel

Gorja Vasudev

Based on a true story

Gorja Vasudev

I’m flying, Jack!

ISSUE [#] — [theme] Editor-in-Chief Jacqueline Meldrum

TEAM LEADS

Submissions/Editing Anoushka Gupta Layout Design Rebecca Kempe Art Diana Tran Marketing Michelle Xie Events Katie Plant & Janvi Sethi

FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS Ariba Khayyam Gorja Vasudev Grace Benjaminsen Jacky Hampai Saisan Just Another Kid Rebecca Kempe S.A. Khan

Cover art Gorja Vasudev @watiszine | watiszine@gmail.com

Happy July everyone! As life in Ontario starts to head towards our newest new normal, and particularly as Waterloo heads forward into Stage 2 of reopening, a look back at how each of our relationships with media have changed over the pandemic seems timely. We wanted to dive into how students feel about media, especially since it’s felt so all-consuming during Covid. While we certainly aren’t saying a full farewell to our media-centric pandemic lifestyles just yet, now is a great time to think about what a deep impact the media we consume has had on our experience of the pandemic. Ironically, when we gave this theme the green light, my assumption was that we would get the moodiest submissions imaginable! I thought that with everyone tired of Covid, we would have poems grieving the loss of interpersonal connection in a sea of Zoom calls or comics critiquing social media’s fakeness. While we would have still loved showcasing moodier work, we instead received submissions which burst at the seams with imagination, thankfulness, and hope. I’ve been so inspired by all of the works in this issue, particularly because they are united in showing such affection for types of entertainment which many claim disconnect us from each other. These works celebrate the contributions that media makes in our lives, and it’s wonderful to take a look at all the ways in which students at UW have felt inspired, connected, and fulﬁlled because of the media they’ve consumed. This feels like a great time to appreciate some of the things that have helped us make it through such an unusual time. This issue we wanted to include you, our readers, in some of the content of our Zine, regardless of whether you’re a UW student or not! We ran story polls so that you could tell us your favourite media genre, and as promised we have a piece written by one of our team members, Rebecca Kempe, which was inspired by the winning genre: Fantasy! We got an overwhelming response to the idea of Fantasy as a point of inspiration, and so we’re fortunate enough to feature even more works inspired by Fantasy in our issue this month. We love seeing what you come up with, and are so glad that we’ve been able to feature so many amazing works this issue. As we stumble towards a long-awaited time of renewed human connection, let’s take a moment to say thank you to all the videos, comics, music, books, and social media platforms which have entertained and informed us. Thank you, and happy reading!

Jacqueline Meldrum Editor-In-Chief 3

table of contents 06 — The Deep by S. A. Khan 08 — One Song to Stay Alive for Forever by Just Another Kid 12 — Connected Through Social Media by Grace Benjaminsen 14 — Be by Ariba Khayyam 16 — Death Do Us Part by Jacky Hampai Saisan 18 — Where You Lead, I Will Follow by Gorja Vasudev 19 — Fantasy Novels 101: A Summer Reading List by Rebecca Kempe

credits 06 — Background Image by Rebecca Kempe 08, 09, 10, 11 — Loading Symbol by RemixIcon 11 — Theatre Photo by Kyle Head on Unsplash 16 — Feather from PNGImg.com

I wrote this poem based on the memory of an old nightmare. I dreamt I was walking through the streets of the waterfront in my hometown, looking for someone, while something dark slowly followed me. I've never been sure what or who it was. I'm drawn to the idea of old, forgotten, deities and the superstitions and traditions they once inspired. I grew up in a coastal city, and I think that also inﬂuenced this poem.

The Deep by S. Khan Walking, winding, down the streets of the western harbourfront, Crones, witches, winking through windows. Rats whisper, rush at my feet The wind rustles the rubbish behind me. Razor-armed boys, wait to rob me around corners, They take one look at my black eyes, turn a heel, rush home to their mothers. See the visage staring at me, In the still water of puddles. Superstitious housewives leave me oﬀerings, Their husbands, the sailors, the ﬁshermen, for them I shall provide. Hooded men guard the threshold of churches, They grip their staves tight, upon my approach. They do not see me. They fear me, these holy men. I’ve walked and wound to the sea’s edge, Stepping into the cold water. I am Dalliol of The Deep, and the tide slumbers at my feet.

PREVIEWING SCORE...

One Song to Stay Alive For Forever Click PLAY to listen to the full mashup

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12:00 PM

Artist Statement grace benjaminsen

Connected Through Social Media I think a lot of people perceive media (social media specifically) as this terrible brainwashing, mind-numbing thing. And although I do agree that in many cases social media can be very unhealthy, I also think it can be a really wonderful thing. Through social media platforms I was able to find people who have shared the same experiences as me which I’m not sure could have happened if these platforms never existed. I have found solace in connecting with other women and queer people to find groups that I can share experiences and be myself in. It has been freeing to have a community of people that I may not have gotten without social media. I feel more connected than ever before.

Be I lay here on Soft and White, Through the trees peaks the sunlight, Reluctant to rise I wrap the petals closer & sigh, but I hear the Voice from beyond the sky, In such mornings I remember, That I'm not here to simply sleep and wander, That I'm not here to simply sleep and wander,

I still need to find the reason for my existence, What I should do and what's its consequence, I'm so little and I have yet to experience, This world and the next one's brilliance.

By Ariba Khayyam

HOW TO USE IT ●

The human whose name is written in this note shall die.

●

This note will not take effect unless the writer has the person's face in their mind when writing his/her name. Therefore, people sharing the same name will not be affected.

●

If the cause of death is written within the next 40 seconds of writing the person's name, it will happen.

●

If the cause of death is not specified, the person will simply die of a heart attack.

●

After writing the cause of death, details of the death should be written in the next 6 minutes and 40 seconds.

Words adapted from the Death Note manga, written by Tsugumi Ohba 16

death do us part

by: jacky hampai saisan

Where You Lead, I Will Follow

by Gorja Vasudev

Fantasy Novels 101: A Summer Reading List by Rebecca Kempe This submission has been inspired by the winning genre of the WatisZine instagram story polls: Fantasy If you’re reading this, you’re likely in one (or a combination) of three boats: you’re trying to enjoy your summer oﬀ, but you’re feeling a little stifled by quarantine; you’re currently on a co-op term, and therefore don’t have a summer oﬀ; or you’re trying to survive a school term and would rather be doing anything (anything!) else right now. While it is extremely important to face real life and go outside to get some fresh air, a healthy dose of escapism can go a long way. That being said, the fantasy genre, especially adult fantasy, can be daunting for new readers. So, here are a few books I’ve read and loved that you might love as well!

The Rest of Us Just Live Here By Patrick Ness (YA) There’s a bit of a debate regarding what genre this book actually is (is it urban fantasy? contemporary YA? apocalyptic fiction?). And this happens to be the very reason why I always recommend this book, especially to people who are new to fantasy.

The entire premise of the book is to follow those who would normally be the background characters in your typical “chosen one” story. While a few kids are oﬀ saving the world from paranormal entities, what do the lives of the other kids look like? The story is set in a town that regularly deals with “outbreaks” of paranormal incidents. Each generation, a few chosen ones (known as the “indie kids” ) have to deal with the mess, while the rest of the town is still aﬀected. For each generation, the adults seem to bury their memories or just forget the paranormal events. Those childhood events can get complicated when trying to explain weird things that happen. The protagonist of the book, Mike, is just trying to finish his senior year, figure out how to cope with his OCD, ask out the girl he’s had a crush on for years, and be present for his friends and sisters. In general, all the characters are sweet and lovely, and they’re a joy to see grow throughout the events of the story. There are so many lovely quotes from this novel : “What happens to you when you get older? Do you just forget everything from before you turned eighteen?” and “We share our craziness, our neuroses, our little bit of screwed-up-ness that comes from our family. We share it. And it feels like love.” This is a great book if you’re looking for a down-to-earth story about relatable characters wrestling with real-world problems, but still want to dip your toes in the world of fantasy . The characters do have to deal with the paranormal events a few times — though they’re not the chosen ones, they’re certainly not exempt. The book is all the more fun for it!

Mistborn: The Final Empire By Brandon Sanderson (Adult) This book was my introduction to both adult and epic fantasy. As such, I would recommend this book to readers who have some experience with young adult fantasy but are a little daunted by the world of adult fantasy. Sanderson’s writing is very clear and accessible. The romance is still decently PG, but the politics and character motivations are much more complex than a YA or middle grade fantasy. Not to mention, Sanderson writes incredibly cinematic action sequences. The Final Empire is the first book in the Mistborn trilogy, and the story takes place in a world where the dark lord was not defeated by the hero of the prophecy. He won, molded the world to his twisted images and desired, and now a young thief lord named Kelsier is gathering together a band of thieves with magical powers to rob him. In this world, magical powers are highly hereditary, limited to those with noble blood, and are all, one, or nothing. There are 10 metals, which when digested, oﬀer the user a specific power. Either you’re a Misting, with the ability to digest one of the metals and therefore use one of the powers; or you’re a Mistborn, with the ability to use all of the powers; or you have no powers at all. 21

Enter Vin: the orphan daughter of a noble’s slave - mistress who works in a thieving gang with her brother Reen. Unbeknownst to her, she’s been using magic unconsciously during their thieving missions, and almost gets killed for using emotional magic on her mark. However, Kelsier finds her, takes her in, and decides to make her the lynchpin to his thieving plot. Of course, Vin’s life is turned upside down, and chaos ensues. There are many great elements in the Mistborn series – for instance the handling of politics, religion, and class tensions, which are all fully fleshed out and given proper thought rather than just being in the background. However, the true star of the show is the magic system. Brandon Sanderson is the almost undisputed master of writing unique and highly scientific magic systems with clearly defined rules. If you’re on the fence, read this purely for the magic system. I don’t want to spoil how it works, but know this: there are enough rules restricting how the magic works that you will never find a deus ex machina situation where all the problems are magically solved. The characters have to do the work- magic is just another tool. They must solve their own problems and that is the beauty of Sanderson’s writing. Also, you get to experience the famous Sanderlanche where events snowball, loose ends get tied up, and the story does not end the way you expected. And that’s a promise!

The Lost Property Oﬀice By James R. Hannibal (Middle Grade) While I love all genres and age categories of books, middle grade fantasy holds a special place in my heart. Because while it does tend to have a clearly defined war between good and evil, the books are pure fun in a way that adult books generally aren’t. 22

This book follows Jack Buckles, a thirteen-year-old American boy who is in London with his mother and his sister Sadie. He is trying to find his father who has mysteriously disappeared in the city. While chasing after his sister who leaves the hotel running after a man, who she thinks is their father, Jack stumbles into the Lost Property Oﬀice. He discovers that his father is part of a secret society of trackers—i.e. people with secret abilities who use their skills to find important and dangerous artifacts. He meets Gwen, a quarter-master (tracker protector) in training who informs him that he too is a tracker, and it’s up to him to find his father. In doing so, he inadvertently drags himself into the search for a dangerous fire-blowing artifact, which is later used to prevent the villain from burning down the city. This book is absolutely delightful. We get old London, new London, secret society drama, detective business, magic, steampunk, science, a hint of romance, and a race against time to beat the villain—all in one story. I also particularly love how Jack’s tracker powers have deep roots in synesthesia—it’s the first time I’ve seen such a new and exciting choice of power in a children’s book, and it got me really excited. This is a lovely, light read for the summer! Sure, it’s a children’s book, but I’m nineteen and I loved it too. 23

Finally, here are some other fantasy books that I think are worth reading These are organized by age range, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Children’s books, young adult books, and adult books are equally valuable and all can be read as an adult. Have fun, and enjoy your summer!

Middle Grade The Iron Trial by Holly Black and Cassandra Clare Enchanted Glass by Diana Wynne The Box and the Dragonfly by Ted Sanders Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend The Left-Handed Booksellers of London by Garth Nix

Young Adult Ink and Bone by Rachel Caine Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo Cold Burn of Magic by Jennifer Estep Curio by Evangeline Denmark A Winter’s Promise by Christelle Dabos

Adult Weave the Lighting by Corry R. Lee Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson The Mask of Mirrors by M. A. Carrick The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoﬀman 24

Meet the contributors! Ariba Khayyam

Ariba Khayyam is a Global Business & Digital Arts (GBDA) student who is passionate about various art forms, such as digital and traditional painting and sketching, 3D crafting, photography, and more. You’ll never ﬁnd her bored, because she is always up making something! Otherwise, she’s probably arranging her bookshelf and crafting table for the hundredth time while listening to music. Website & Blog: www.aribakhayyam.com Instagram: @ari.tist

Gorja Vasudev

Hey, I'm a Global Business and digital art student. I like to illustrate, especially custom portraits while I watch Netﬂix or listen to music. I started illustrating by creating movie posters during lockdown last year :) Instagram: @gorja.vasudev

Grace Benjaminsen

Grace is a second-year Waterloo student majoring in Communications and minoring in both Digital Arts Communications and Fine Arts. She has always had a passion for the arts ever since she was a kid. Grace has since then created content for Western University, illustrated ﬁgures for a peer-reviewed paper, created a mural for a London business called Elizabeth Noel, and won The Chalmers Family Arts and Culture Experience Award at the University of Waterloo. She is excited to see what the future will bring in her visual art endeavours! Instagram: @gracebenj.creative

Jacky Hampai Saisan (he/him)

Jacky is a second year Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies student who has an appreciation for the grisly things in life. He enjoys ghouls, queer advocacy, and arguing that all monsters are gay, actually. Occasionally he draws. Allegedly. Don’t hold him to it. Instagram: @otabekyurio

Just Another Kid

Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO_ytViih-I1a-e6 EFEz31Q

Rebecca Kempe

Rebecca is primarily a writer, frequently a photographer, and occasionally an artist. Mostly, she makes things. In her free time, she exists. Rebecca is also an Architectural Engineering student. She's not too sure how that happened. Personal Website: www.rkempe.ca Instagram: @arbeeko Blog: rebeeksrants.wordpress.com/

S. A. Khan

Khan is a 2nd year Biochemistry student. In his spare time, he tries to keep his day-night cycle normal and healthy. He has lived in a few different places, and writes when he can, reading when he can’t. Technology scares him. Instagram links: main: @kha.75n writing: @karachi.gothic photography: @kha75nphotography 27

Issue 15 June 2021

WAT is Zine? Issue 15: Media

Articles inside

Fantasy Novels 101: A Summer Reading List

Be

Connected Through Social Media

Death Do Us Part by Jacky Hampai Saisan

The Deep by S. A. Khan