KATSUMI STERLING
When I was a child my grandfather told me an old story about a farmer and his horse. For those that are unfamiliar with the fable, it follows the apparent trials and fortunes of a farmer. Each day his neighbors either lament or praise the changes. Yet to each one, the farmer replies, “Maybe, we’ll see.” I’ve heard many versions of this tale. My grandfather’s conclusion was that “You never know how things are going to turn out until they turn out. It takes time.”
This story taught me perspective. The farmer and his horse taught me that multiple people can read or hear the same tale and walk away with various interpretations. It’s an opportunity for a new narrative to form as long as people are willing to carry their lessons on with them.
2020 was a year full of new narratives and old stories.Fortunately, this magazine was founded by members who love the work they do and are willing to build a new community for genre authors. Unfortunately, the team struggled—just like the rest of the world—during a global pandemic as collective creativity suffered. Our authors have pushed through a time of division and isolation and collaborated with us to create. For that, we are eternally grateful.
Another lesson I learned from the farmer and his horse is that the narrator controls where the story ends. The tale could go on in perpetuity, but where does the author wish it to land? I believe words have extreme power and that stories have a unique ability to bring people together who might not otherwise connect. It can be difficult to communicate or resolve differences, but stories give people those chances and opportunities.
I hope the tales we have gathered here entertain you and inspire conversations so that we, as a community, can keep moving forward.
KATSUMI STERLING
MAY 16, 2021
