Winter 2021 Letter from the Editor

This issue of Bluestem brings to a close my tenure as Editor-in-Chief.  We’ve seen many changes take place at the journal during my years working with it, not least of which is our transition from print to online. In that time, I’ve been lucky enough to publish superb work by emerging and established writers, and see their pieces anthologized in Best Microfiction and Best American Nonrequired, among other venues. I’ve met, and gotten to know, several of our talented contributors at various events and readings around Illinois. I’ve had the opportunity to work with outstanding EIU interns –Ian Holden, Xhyla Abazi, and Faith Wellbaum—whose tireless efforts behind the scenes made this journal possible.

In other words, I’ve had a grand time.

Now the reins pass to Colleen Abel, our Poetry Editor, who has brought her wisdom, enthusiasm, and keen eye to the journal. This issue would not exist without her guidance and determination. I can’t wait to see what she does with Bluestem in the future.

In this issue, we feature extraordinary work from writers all over the globe, ranging in tone from the sublime to the strange. I was particularly excited to see the wonderful “Grace” come in over the transom and am delighted to share it with you here.

Always remember: bluestem is a tall, proud prairie grass whose roots run deep in Illinois.

 — Bess Winter