talkingwitht

[talkingwitht]

Strange Pictures by Uketsu — A Mind-Bending Masterpiece

Talking with T ₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊

🎀Today's Topic🎀 - Strange Pictures by Uketsu

30/July/2025

"I used to think creepy webtoons were just cheap scares and jump cuts. Then I found Strange Pictures, and suddenly I’m triple-checking every photo on my phone. Let’s talk about it."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I was casually scrolling through TikTok one night, the usual mix of book recs, cursed recipes, and chaotic edits , when I stumbled across a video raving about a horror graphic novel called Strange Houses. The comments section? Absolutely unhinged. Everyone kept saying the same thing: “You need to read Strange Pictures first.” So naturally, I did what any curious (and slightly impulsive) reader would do --- I hunted down both copies and added them to my growing “books that might ruin my sleep schedule” pile. Today’s focus is Strange Pictures, and let me just say --- this is not your average read. It’s disturbing, hypnotic, and weirdly addictive. A psychological horror webtoon that relies less on gore and more on imagery, tension, and a slow spiral into madness. It doesn’t just creep you out --- it lingers in the back of your mind, like something you forgot to be afraid of. 🚨THERE WILL BE SPOILERS🚨 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

🔍 What Is Strange Pictures?

Author: Uketsu — known for creating deeply unsettling psychological horror stories that mess with your head more than your eyes. If you like eerie pacing and mind-bending plots, this is his specialty.

Format: A standalone novel, not a series. Clocking in around 240 pages, it weaves together multiple short mysteries into a larger puzzle through linked stories and evocative visuals

Genre: Psycholoical horror, thriller, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural. Perfect for fans of slow-building dread that creeps under your skin without ever yelling "BOO."

📱 The Premise (Spoiler-Free):

The book opens with a developmental psychologist analyzing a disturbing child’s drawing tied to a matricide case. From there, it unfolds through four interlocking stories, each centered around strange drawings made by characters disturbed or trapped in tragic circumstances. These include:

A new father’s blog with sketches made by his late wife during pregnancy

A child’s unnerving house drawing after going missing

An art teacher’s final sketch made on a receipt before a brutal death

Individually, these tales feel like small mysteries—but by the final section, they lock together into a chilling, cohesive whole

💀 The Vibe: If Junji Ito had a quiet conversation with Black Mirror, in a dimly lit room with no exit — you’d get Strange Pictures. It’s:

Slow and sinister

Visually disturbing in a subtle, haunting way

Focused on psychological unraveling, not gore or cheap jumpscares

A story that sits with you... long after you finish the last page

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🖼 The storytelling style This isn’t horror that jumps out at you --- it sinks in slowly. The visuals don’t rely on gore or chaos but instead use silence, subtle shifts, and stillness to create unease. Every page is like a breadcrumb leading you deeper into something you’re not sure you want to find.

🌫 Atmosphere The mood is bleak and muted, and it works. The limited color palette (mostly greys and soft blues) gives the story a cold, detached feeling --- like you're seeing through a dusty camera lens. The spaces feel abandoned, forgotten, and strangely familiar.

🔍 Themes Strange Pictures explores perception and memory in ways that feel deeply personal. There’s this lingering question of what’s real and what’s projected. Obsession and trauma are big here, and the story never hands you easy answers. It wants you to sit in the discomfort and start connecting the dots on your own.

🧠 Emotional impact By the end, I wasn’t just creeped out --- I was quiet. It left that heavy, hollow feeling you get after a really vivid dream. There’s something haunting about how human it all felt — like any of us could end up chasing ghosts in our own minds.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

💬 My Favourite Moments

⚠️ Spoilers Ahead — You’ve Been Warned!

There were a few moments in Strange Pictures that genuinely made me pause --- not because they were shocking in a typical horror sense, but because they were emotionally jarring or beautifully constructed in their quiet horror.

🩸 The sketch on the receipt from the second story absolutely floored me. The idea that someone’s final thoughts — maybe even their confession — were captured in a frantic little drawing felt so raw. It wasn’t just eerie; it was sad. That’s what I keep coming back to with this book: the sadness buried inside the horror.

📘 The final chapter where everything ties back together? That was my “holy sh*t” moment. I actually flipped back to earlier chapters to re-check things, and sure enough --- the clues were always there. The way those stories locked into each other without screaming for attention was masterful. It’s one of the few books where I felt rewarded for paying attention. The wholeeeee time i thought Yuki was the main character, but I was wrong !!!. Every single time I thought I had the plot twist but i did not.

📚 Would I Recommend Strange Pictures?

Absolutely — but with a caveat. This isn’t a jump-scare horror. It’s a psychological slow-burn that creeps into your thoughts after you close the book. If you love tidy endings or fast pacing, this might frustrate you. But if you’re someone who enjoys decoding themes, noticing visual details, and sitting with subtle, emotional horror ---- you’re going to be obsessed.

It’s especially perfect if you:

Loved Strange Houses and want more Uketsu storytelling.

Are a fan of creators like Junji Ito, or shows like Black Mirror and The Haunting of Hill House.

Like horror that feels deeply human — sad, quiet, and a little too real.

I’d say this is a 5/5 stars read for psychological horror fans, and probably a 3.5/5 for those expecting something more fast-paced or action-heavy

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🌙 That’s All for Today

If this book taught me anything, it’s that sometimes the scariest stories aren’t loud --- they’re quiet, patient, and waiting just behind your eyes. Strange Pictures left a mark, and honestly? I’m still thinking about it.

Thanks for hanging out with me again. Next up, we’re switching gears a little --- I’ll be diving into something that smells like ink and ambition: journaling for people who hate journaling. Yep, it’s a thing.

Until then, keep reading weird stuff. 🖤

— T

[talkingwitht]

Is Tarot Real? Here’s What Happened When I Tried It

Talking with T ₊✩‧₊˚౨ৎ˚₊✩‧₊

🎀Today's Topic🎀 - Tarot

🌼Today's Product🌼 - Anua Skincare

28/July/2025

Go to https://talkingswithtia.blogspot.com for a larger spread out of this blog!

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"I used to roll my eyes every time someone brought up tarot. Now? I pull cards with my coffee. Let’s talk about how that happened."

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I used to think tarot was something fortune tellers used in dimly lit tents to tell you your love life was doomed. Dramatic, mysterious, and probably fake. But after months of pulling cards for myself (and yes, side-eyeing every result), I’ve learned that tarot isn’t about predicting the future, it’s about getting honest with yourself.

And honestly? I kind of love it now.

So today on Talking with T, let’s unpack a few myths, share what I’ve learned through readings, and give you some tips if you're curious about reading tarot for yourself. I’ll even do a quick collective reading at the end. Let’s go.

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Fact or Fiction?🪬🔮

🔮 Myth 1: Tarot Tells the Future

🪬 What I Learned: Tarot doesn’t really predict, it reflects. It pulls themes, energies, and things you might be avoiding or not seeing clearly. Think of it as a mirror for your inner world, not a crystal ball for the external one.

🔮 Myth 2: You Have to Be Psychic to Use Tarot

🪬 What I Learned: You don’t need powers. You need intuition, which you already have, and tarot helps sharpen it. The more I read, the more I realise I already know what I need… the cards just nudge me to admit it.

🔮 Myth 3: You Should Never Buy Your Own Deck

🪬 What I Learned: That’s outdated. The deck I bought for myself was the best gift I ever gave me. It called to me, and that connection matters more than whether it was gifted or bought.

🔮 Myth 4: Tarot Is Evil or “Dark Magic”

🪬 What I Learned: Tarot isn’t inherently dark, it’s a tool. Just like a journal, a mirror, or a meditation practice, it reflects your inner world. Sure, it can feel intense when you’re facing shadowy truths, but that’s growth, not evil. Intention matters more than anything. If you come to tarot for clarity, reflection, or healing, that’s what it becomes.

🔮 Myth 5: You Have to Memorise All 78 Cards to Start

🪬 What I Learned: Nope! Tarot is a conversation, not a test. It’s okay to use the guidebook (I still do). Start with the major arcana, learn in layers, and give yourself space to absorb meanings naturally. Some days you’ll connect instantly with a card; other days it’ll take a while, and that’s all part of the magic.

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How Tarot worked for me ✨

When I first started reading tarot, I wasn’t expecting clarity, I just wanted something to help me feel a little more grounded. I wasn’t asking the universe for signs or hoping to predict my future. I was just… lost in my thoughts, and the cards gave me a way to slow down and actually hear myself. Over time, I noticed that certain cards would show up when I was avoiding something or when I needed a nudge I didn’t want to admit. It wasn’t magic in the flashy sense, it was quiet, subtle, and deeply personal. Tarot helped me ask better questions and trust the answers I already knew deep down. It became a way to check in with myself, not change my life overnight --- and honestly, that’s what made it powerful.

It also surprised me how much it helped me emotionally. Some days, I’d pull a card and immediately feel seen, like the deck knew exactly what I didn’t want to deal with. Other days, it gave me gentle reminders to rest, to let go, or to shift my mindset. It wasn’t about “being right” or getting perfect answers; it was about learning to sit with my feelings without judgment. The more I read, the more connected I felt to myself. Tarot became a kind of quiet self-care ritual, a way to reflect, reset, and show up a little more honestly in my own life.

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Tutorial for Beginners 

So you’ve got your first tarot deck and you’re ready to pull a card, but now what?

Don't worry, you don’t need to memorise all 78 cards or be a full moon witch to get started. Here's a step-by-step guide on how I learned to read tarot for myself, and how you can too.

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🌜 What You’ll Need:

A tarot deck (I recommend something traditional like the Rider-Waite for beginners)

A quiet moment

Optional: candle, music, crystals, journal, whatever helps you feel grounded <3

1. Set the Scene (Optional but Helpful) 🌞

Light a candle. Take a deep breath. Shuffle your cards slowly. You don’t need a ritual, but creating a calm vibe makes it easier to tune in.

T’s Tip: Some people knock on the deck, cleanse it with incense, or hold it to their heart, do what feels natural. No wrong answers here.

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2. Ask a Question 🪐

Keep it open-ended. Instead of “Will I get the job?” try:

“What energy should I bring into this interview?”

“What’s blocking me from career growth right now?”

“What do I need to know about this situation?”

Clarity in the question brings clarity in the answer.

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3. Shuffle with Intention 🕯

Think about your question as you shuffle. Stop when you feel ready. You can pull:

One card for quick guidance

Three cards for past / present / future or mind / body / spirit

Or get creative with your own spread

T’s Favourite Beginner Pull: One card a day — ask: What energy do I need today?

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4. Look at the Card Before Grabbing the Guidebook 🌞

What stands out? The colour, the imagery, the emotion? Take a moment to connect intuitively. You might surprise yourself with how much you already sense.

Then check the meaning. Most cards have layers, so trust the one that resonates most.

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5. Write It Down🪐

Jot the card, the question, and what it made you feel. Over time, you’ll spot patterns, emotional themes, repeated cards, little warnings or nudges.

Example: “Pulled The Empress after asking about self-care. Maybe it’s time to actually listen to what my body’s been saying...”

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6. End with Gratitude🕯

Even if you didn’t love the answer, thank the process. That energy matters. Tarot meets you where you're at.

🖤 Things to Remember:

You’re not “summoning spirits.” You’re connecting with your subconscious.

If you feel blocked, take a break. Tarot should feel like guidance, not pressure.

There’s no “right” way. The more you use the cards, the more your way will emerge.

🔮 T’s Beginner Resources:

Decks I Love: Rider-Waite, Modern Witch, The Light Seer’s Tarot

Free Apps: Labyrinthos, Golden Thread Tarot

Books: Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom by Rachel Pollack, Tarot for Yourself by Mary K. Greer

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🧚 A Card Just for You: A Collective Reading

If you’ve made it this far, this message might be meant for you. I pulled a single card while writing this post, something for anyone reading right now, whether you’re new to tarot or already deep in your journey.

~~~~~~~  Card Pulled: The Six of Swords

💭 Message:

You’re in the middle of a quiet transition. Maybe you haven’t told anyone yet, or maybe you don’t even fully understand it yourself, but something inside you is shifting. This card is all about leaving behind what’s heavy and slowly moving toward clarity, healing, and peace. It’s not about rushing. It’s about honouring that you're on your way, even if you're not there yet.

The waters might still be choppy, but you're not standing still anymore. You’re moving forward, and that matters.

🖤 T’s Take:

Give yourself credit for the progress you don’t always see. This card is soft encouragement, not pressure. You’re allowed to take your time.

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PRODUCT REVIEW: 🫧🫧Anua Skincare 🫧🫧

I’ve been on the lookout for skincare products that actually deliver results without feeling heavy or harsh --- especially since my skin can get sensitive and a little unpredictable. When I heard about Anua, a brand known for using gentle, natural ingredients, I knew I had to try it. Plus, I love products that feel like a small ritual of self-care rather than just another step in a routine.

What I Used: Serum & Pore Cleanser

I focused on two key products: the Anua Heartleaf Serum and their Pore Tightening Cleanser. The serum is lightweight, almost like water, but deeply hydrating. It absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky residue, which is a huge plus for me. The scent is very subtle, fresh, clean, nothing overpowering.

The pore cleanser is gentle yet effective. It foams up nicely and doesn’t strip my skin of moisture. After using it, my face feels really clean but not tight or dry. I noticed it helped reduce the appearance of my pores over time, which is a win.

How to Use These Products

I usually start my evening routine with the pore cleanser. I massage a small amount onto damp skin, focusing on areas where my pores tend to get congested, then rinse with lukewarm water. It’s gentle enough that I can use it every day without irritation.

After cleansing, I apply a few drops of the serum onto my face and neck, gently patting it in. Sometimes I use it in the morning too, especially on days when my skin feels dry or sensitive. It layers well under moisturiser and makeup, which is great.

My Results After 4 Weeks

After about a month of consistent use, my skin feels calmer and more balanced. The redness I sometimes get around my cheeks has decreased, and my pores definitely look smaller and less noticeable. My skin texture is smoother overall, and I’ve gotten a few compliments on my natural glow. The best part? No irritation or breakouts, which tells me these products really respect my skin’s sensitivity.

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 Pros & Cons    

Pros:

Gentle yet effective formulas

Lightweight, fast-absorbing serum

Pore cleanser that cleans deeply without dryness

Subtle, fresh scent

Great for sensitive or combination skin

Cons:

The pore cleanser isn’t very foamy if you like lots of bubbles (but that’s normal for gentle cleansers)

Available mostly online, so shipping can take a few days depending on where you live

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I’m giving Anua Skincare a full 5 stars because it genuinely delivers on its promise, gentle, natural, and effective. These products feel like a breath of fresh air for my skin, and the ritual of using them has become one of my favourite parts of the day. Whether you’re new to skincare or just looking to switch to something kinder for your skin, I highly recommend giving Anua a try.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely! If you want skincare that’s simple, soothing, and actually works, Anua is a fantastic choice. It’s especially good if your skin is sensitive or you’re looking to reduce redness and shrink pores without harsh ingredients.

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Thanks for joining me on this first dive into tarot --- I hope it’s given you some clarity and sparked your curiosity to explore the cards yourself. Remember, tarot is less about predicting your future and more about connecting with your inner voice.

Next time, we’ll be diving into a fascinating book called “Strange Pictures Uketsu”,  exploring its mysterious imagery and how it can inspire deeper readings. I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned and hear your thoughts!

Until then, keep your decks close and your intuition open. ✨

— T