This video is an illustrated essay that I wrote a few years ago. It features some of my artworks, which demonstrate the major concepts of literary terms that I discuss in my essay, based on a poster with the statement: "You are the author of your own life story" that I saw in a classroom where I was substitute teaching one day. I present an uplifting message about the nature of human existence, which is especially relevant in the uncertain times that we now face in our world.