I’m always amazed at how quickly the time passes between issues, particularly when they’re delayed (I know. I’m sorry). It’s a marvel to me we are publishing yet another one. When I founded Emerge Literary Journal in 2011, I didn’t have a Magic 8 Ball to ask whether or not this venture might be successful, how successful, or even whether or not it would still be here a decade later. What I do know is this: turns out running a small literary magazine is harder than it looks. Submissions pour in, submissions that need to be reviewed, responded to and agonized over. Yet, we’ve managed to put out yet another issue, one we’re very proud of.

When I founded this journal, I never imagined it would ever go on hiatus, but after my battle with cancer and overcoming personal struggles, I was able to revive it, and later the press, with the help of just one man, Damon McKinney. Damon worked hard, grew a tremendous following, and curated the best eight issues I ever imagined. He didn’t just volunteer his time and effort, he volunteered his heart, and over the course of time he became a confidant and a friend. Without his constant encouragement I couldn’t have kept going at times, but he came up with new ideas for me to focus on and always pointed out the simplest of successes.

Today, I forget the history of the journal, what it was, what it’s become, and will always focus on its evolution, on the amplification of its contributors and living out its mission. Today I can think of no other way to end this editor’s note than to dedicate this issue, Issue 19, to the one and only Damon McKinney. Much love to you, my friend. Best wishes. So long and thanks for all the fish.

 
Be Well. Write Well. Read Well.
 
Ariana