The Eel & the Blowfish

This article presents an interview with Terry Marks-Tarlow and Leanne Domash, the creators of the graphic novel The Eel & the Blowfish: A Graphic Novel of Dreams, Trauma & Healing. The novel delves into sensitive topics such as sexual and physical violence through the story of its protagonist, Toni, who experiences a journey of empowerment and healing. The discussion highlights the importance of dreams in Toni’s psychological transformation, the role of friendship in trauma recovery, and the integration of psychoeducation with storytelling. The creators emphasize the use of visual metaphors, such as the "window of tolerance" and the Trickster archetype, to explore complex psychological processes. The novel blends fantasy and reality, utilizing both to convey deep emotional experiences. The interview also touches on the creators’ approach to balancing the narrative with moments of emotional regulation, and the use of the graphic novel medium to visually represent internal states and therapeutic processes.

  • Understand the role of dreams in psychological transformation and trauma recovery as depicted in The Eel & the Blowfish.

  • Analyze the importance of friendship and social support in the healing process of trauma survivors.

  • Explore the use of visual metaphors, such as the "window of tolerance" and the Trickster archetype, in conveying complex psychological concepts.

  • Identify the integration of psychoeducation with storytelling in a graphic novel format to enhance therapeutic understanding.

  • Examine the creators' use of fantasy and reality blending in the narrative to represent deep emotional experiences.

  • Reflect on the use of graphic novels as a medium to illustrate internal psychological states and therapeutic processes effectively.

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