When I decided on the theme for this issue, I had to ward off the creeping nervousness that a theme as simple as “Returning” might be a little on the nose, but I felt certain that it was at least going to be honest.

My palate for the arts leans perhaps rather heavily, toward realism. I appreciate stories that are personal and relatable. Sometimes we laugh and cry in the same breath. Other times we tell one another how we feel by saying nothing at all.

The stories and visuals in this issue speak for and to each other. I hope that they speak to you too.

Compliments to our talented contributors and to everyone who truly believes in the sacred value of art in human life.

Chijioke Osuji