Publishing Design - Task 2: Content Generation
26/9/2024 - 7/11/2024 (Week 1 - Week 7)
Tiffany Tan Xuan (0362472)
Publishing Design / Bachelor of Design (Hon) in Creative Design
Task 2: Content Generation
INSTRUCTION
LECTURES
Write 3000 words (English/Malay) on any subject that you are familiar with, for example: yourself, your family, someone who inspires you, your hometown, or an experience or an idea/belief that you feel strongly about, etc. The text content must be divided into 3 chapters minimum. It must also have 3/4/5 subtexts (sidebars) and one caption per chapter. You have 1 week for this. You can also choose to obtain the text from a source, which you will credit or solicit a real job from a client that falls roughly within the parameters mentioned above
When I embarked on Task 2, the content generation process for my book More Than a Number, I didn’t anticipate the mix of emotions, challenges, and revelations that would follow. It wasn’t just about writing a book—it was about confronting my own journey and translating it into a story that could resonate with others. Alongside that, creating the visuals became an equally transformative part of the experience, as they gave life to the narrative in a way that words alone couldn’t.
I started by revisiting my experiences, digging deep into moments that had shaped me. The story spans from the biting remarks during Chinese New Year gatherings to the obsessive routines I adopted to fit into societal expectations. While revisiting these memories was painful, it also brought clarity. I realized how far I’d come—not just in terms of weight, but in understanding my worth.
Breaking the story into chapters was my first challenge. I wanted the flow to feel natural and relatable, so I divided the book into three main parts: the struggles (Under the Festive Lights), the pursuit (Chasing the Scale), and the realization (Finding Joy Within). Each chapter needed its own tone. The first was reflective and raw, the second intense and driven, and the last uplifting and hopeful.
The writing process itself was intense. I often found myself questioning whether my words were authentic enough or if they captured the emotions I felt at the time. Writing about my struggles with self-image and weight wasn’t easy—it felt like exposing a vulnerable part of myself. But the more I wrote, the more cathartic it became. It reminded me of why I started this project: to inspire others who might be walking a similar path.
Creating visuals for the book was equally meaningful. I wanted the illustrations to complement the text while providing a visual journey for the readers. The abstract, minimalist style I chose was intentional—it allowed for interpretation and connection, letting readers see themselves in the story.
Designing these visuals wasn’t always smooth. Some ideas didn’t translate well, and I often went back to revise them, ensuring each illustration truly captured the essence of the narrative. I found that as I worked on the drawings, I connected with my story on a deeper level.
Visuals PDF
REFLECTION
One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing vulnerability with inspiration. How much of my struggle should I share? Would readers find hope in my journey, or would the weight of the challenges overshadow the triumphs? I reflected on this constantly.
Another obstacle was staying consistent with the tone of both the visuals and the text. While the story is deeply personal, the illustrations needed to feel universal. I wanted anyone who picked up the book to relate to the imagery, regardless of their own experiences with body image.
Completing Project 2 has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It was more than just an academic assignment—it was a chance to create something meaningful and authentic. Looking back, I see how much I’ve grown, not just as a creator but as a person.
More Than a Number is my story, but it’s also a story for anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectations, the sting of judgment, or the pressure to be something they’re not. It’s a celebration of self-love, resilience, and the beauty of being unapologetically yourself.
As I close this chapter of the project, I feel a mix of relief, pride, and anticipation. I hope the book and its visuals inspire readers as much as creating it has inspired me.
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