When we began publishing in late 2022, we were well aware of the rise of the authoritarianism, not only in the U.S., but worldwide. Still we were not prepared for the re-election of That Fucking Guy, let alone the immediate implementation of Project 2025, which we are all now witnessing. I'm still not over the shock.

In addition to living in a near-total state of hyper-arousal, I am dumbfounded and tongue-tied. I've been unable to write anything of substance in the last few months, nor have I created any new visual artwork.

Thankfully, I have discovered a new creative outlet that I have been immersing myself in as much as possible that has been helping me stay sane and positive. I have a new appreciation for harsh music, which I am listening to and creating as much as possible. Specifically, I am enjoying Industrial Noise, Industrial Drone, Industrial Techno and Electronica, and other kinds of Experimental Music.

I am creating music under the name PUMIQUXT, and if you have low tolerance for cacophony or harsh sounds, I suggest you do not check it out. Much of what I'm working on is explicitly anti-fascist, and all of it is intense.

Of course, that's not all I'm doing in response to current conditions. I've always been an active supporter of leftist, queer, and anti-racist causes and organizations, which I am continuing.

black circle with with two flags in it on a teal background. top flag is black. bottom flag is hot pink.

This is all just to present the context for our new logo. I have replaced the star/moon circle that we've been using with a double flag logo that is associated with Antifa. I'm keeping the EO color scheme, which refers to the ever-widening range of colors used to represent the LGBTQIA+ community.

Intuitively, I guess I knew what was coming when I chose the muses for this literary outlet. I am horrified at where we find ourselves today, but at the same time grateful for and inspired by Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore, who live on through their, and our, art.

Issue 14 is in the works, and my excitement for it is growing. I will have more to say about it soon.

Thank you for your continuing attention and support.