Why I Chose a Victorian Letter Purse:

A Victorian letter purse, a small and ornate pouch fashionable during the Victorian era, functioned as a vessel for carrying letters, notes, and personal trinkets. These intricately crafted purses, adorned with elaborate beadwork, embroidery, and decorative elements, were primarily designed for women and served as fashionable accessories.

In my exploration of how autism can evoke mermaid tendencies, I chose to fashion my book after a Victorian letter purse. This choice offers a potent metaphor for the autism experience and its parallels to mermaid-like inclinations. Much like the little mermaid's penchant for gathering treasures from the human world, individuals with autism often exhibit a keen propensity for collecting objects, both large and small. This inclination may stem from a profound fascination with specific interests or sensory experiences.

By presenting the book in the form of a Victorian letter purse, I aim to symbolize the intricate and distinctive way individuals with autism perceive and engage with their surroundings. Similar to the ornate adornments of the purse, the experiences and viewpoints of individuals with autism possess multifaceted complexities, often revealing hidden depths and layers not immediately discernible to others.

The association with mermaid tendencies adds an additional layer of depth to the narrative. Much like mermaids, who inhabit the liminal space between land and sea, individuals with autism may feel similarly situated between differing social expectations and sensory realities. The Victorian era, characterized by its emphasis on decorum and societal norms, provides a compelling backdrop for exploring themes of divergence and acceptance.

By crafting my book in the likeness of a Victorian letter purse, I endeavor to pay homage to the classic tale of the little mermaid while employing symbolism to delve into the unique experiences of individuals with autism and their mermaid-like qualities. This approach offers a captivating and introspective journey into understanding autism's complexities and nuances.

Navigating the intricacies of autism, much like exploring the detailed design of the Victorian letter purse, may initially seem daunting or confining. However, with time and understanding, one can uncover the richness and depth within, revealing a fascinating tapestry of insights and experiences.