Sound of Pain: A Journey of Grief, Healing, and Human Connection
NEW RELEASES
Inspiring empathy and unity in the face of loss: The message of 'Sound of Pain'
10 MINS READ TIME
Words RICHARD O’NEAL
Photography Allen Daniel
DIRECTOR Samson BinutU
PRE-ORDER SOUND OF PAIN BY STEVEN ONOJA
In the ethereal realm of storytelling, I ventured into the digital space, deeply exploring Steven's world, an extraordinary storyteller and photographer whose life has been profoundly shaped by a painful journey of loss and healing. First and foremost, I offered my deepest condolences for the passing of his mother, a pivotal figure whose influence was palpable in every word he expressed. In the following moments, I was captivated by the raw vulnerability with which Steven bared his soul, sharing how her departure had sparked a transformational odyssey that culminated in creating his profoundly personal and remarkably resonant book, Sound of Pain.
As Steven reminisced about his mother, a luminous smile lit up his face, revealing the indelible impression she had left upon him. "Everything I saw from my mother was positive. Everything was with a smile on her face," he reminisced fondly. Her grace and elegance inspired him to be Nigerian and ignited his fascination with the vibrant connection between clothing and emotions. This theme manifested beautifully in the photography woven throughout the book. It was apparent that "Sound of Pain" was more than a literary endeavor. This book served as a canvas for Steven's emotional alchemy, his grief, and longing channeled into words and images, transforming sorrow into poignant expressions of human experience. "Like most kids growing up in Africa, they have experienced such loss in one way or the other, and that led to my obsession looking for an answer instantly because I have seen it first hand," he disclosed, illuminating the empathetic tapestry he had woven, inviting readers to traverse the depths of emotion alongside him.
Delving deeper, I probed the origins of his courage to share his story, a journey not for the faint-hearted. Steven revealed a pivotal moment when he realized foul play in his mother's death, an event that shattered the facade of comfort and pushed him to confront the uncomfortable truths surrounding her passing. "It is beyond being vulnerable, but preventing others from experiencing it is important," he asserted with a conviction that defied his inner turmoil.
With each page of "Sound of Pain," readers encounter a narrative that mirrors the fundamental dichotomy of life—before and after losing a loved one. Steven's evocative prose and photography rendered the pain of grief tangible, vividly depicting the emotional storm one faces after an irreplaceable departure. "Losing someone close feels like life in two days: before and after they're gone. It's tough. The pain can be physical and emotional, and taking the time to grieve and process the loss is important," Steven confessed, revealing his steadfast commitment to exploring the complexities of loss and its impact on human existence.
As Steven divulged the transformative journey of writing, he spoke of a "stranger" aspect to his story, one that lurked within the hidden crevices of his memories. He confessed to battling night terrors from a young age, and with each keystroke, he embarked on a cathartic expedition into the recesses of his psyche. "It's amazing how I had to dig deep back when I lived as a child to put it on paper (or keyboard) can be so freeing," he disclosed, unearthing the shadows that had long haunted him.
The process of writing "Sound of Pain" was not just a means of catharsis for Steven but also an avenue for breaking the silence around untold stories. He unveiled the importance of dispelling societal taboos, using myths as a privileged lens to explore cultural complexities and familial avarice. Steven shattered the constraints of reticence through his writing, fostering a connection with readers who might have otherwise remained isolated in their grief.
Steven's innovative approach in combining personal writings with striking photography lent an enchanting harmony to "Sound of Pain." This union created an immersive experience, guiding readers through an emotional landscape transcending language barriers. The journey through his words and images offered a profound sense of peace and reflection, allowing others to find solace in their shared human experiences.
The beauty of "Sound of Pain" lies in its universal resonance. Steven weaves a tapestry of shared human experiences with grace and eloquence, uniting readers from diverse backgrounds in the common thread of grief and healing. "At some point in our lives, we will all experience loss. It's a natural part of the human experience," Steven proclaimed, affirming the potential for unity amidst the ebb and flow of life's unpredictability.
Steven stumbled upon unforeseen revelations about himself and his family as he unraveled the enigmatic tendrils of his grief and healing process. The process of writing "Sound of Pain" revealed unexplored facets of his identity and allowed him to confront and overcome long-buried demons. Through his profound self-discovery, Steven breathed life into his work, imbuing it with an authenticity that will surely touch readers' hearts worldwide.
Steven's writing journey was intrinsically entwined with the present moment. Every emotion, every thought, and every event found a home in the pages of "Sound of Pain," enriching his storytelling with authenticity and relatability.
PRE-ORDER SOUND OF PAIN BY STEVEN ONOJA
Steven's courage in baring his soul resonates deeply in this age of emotional isolation. His advice to those who aspire to share their stories but grapple with vulnerability was an encouragement and an acknowledgment of shared struggles. "I recommend people share their stories to help others who find it difficult to open up. Also, know they aren't alone," he urged readers to embrace their authenticity and connect with others through the powerful storytelling medium.
Beyond its cultural origin, "Sound of Pain" offers a universal message of unity. Steven's exploration of emotions, grief, and connection transcends geographical borders, fostering a collective sense of empathy. "The similarity in our stories, the shared experiences as we discover things within us," Steven asserted, leaving an indelible impression of shared humanity.
Steven's writing journey is an ever-evolving one. While the future remains a mystery, his work has already illuminated a path of self-discovery, resilience, and hope. The storytelling maestro's unwavering commitment to exploring the intricate threads of human experience will undoubtedly lead to more captivating and transformative narratives. His story lingers in the recesses of our minds, leaving an indelible mark. "Sound of Pain" stands as a symphony of healing and unity, a tapestry woven with emotions, grief, and connection, igniting a sense of hope in the hearts of readers worldwide. Steven's courage, vulnerability, and unwavering spirit remind us of the boundless power of storytelling, the universality of shared human experiences, and the strength that emerges from the depths of pain. In the words of Steven, "The text is only beginning. It's only the beginning." And with each new chapter of his life and literary journey, we eagerly await the unfolding saga of this remarkable storyteller.
