Introduction from the Editor

Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass. ~ Anton Chekhov

How Did We Get Here?

A few years ago, we began a journey to translate the fundamental values of our poetry site (criticalpoet.com) into a journal. The Critical Poet’s mission is to provide poets with a safe harbor to engage with other writers, to work, to fail and to improve, all the while providing feedback through critiques. Not everyone takes criticism easily, however, it is only through this process that a writer can expect to grow. We wanted to bring that forward and there seemed no better way than with a journal. There were doubts: Who would run it? What would draw writers and readers to our magazine? What would we call it? We got lucky, finding those who were willing to give the journal a try, willing to put in countless hours arguing over poems and working through the mechanics of developing a website. And of course there are the poets, willing to take a chance on a fledgling publication. We’re proud of the result, hoping that it provides an opportunity for thought, discussion, debate and growth. It’s our hope that you will enjoy this community effort.

C.M. Bailey

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