I have never quite understood the thinking behind publications which choose to limit a given issue to a particular theme. I guess I have always believed that a good poem is a good poem. And a good poem deserves to be read. Additionally, due to its nature, poetry itself is so subject to interpretation, that I have always thought a case could be made for almost any poem to somehow, in some way, fit almost any "general" theme.

What I do find interesting though, is when the contents of a given issue somehow, of their own accord, fall into a theme together, and sit there side by side as if sharing a huge comfy couch, with a clear and visible thread running through them.

In this month's issue I find this phenomenon quite striking. Overwhelmingly and almost without exception, the poems this month are about "loss". I do not know how this came about, but I do find myself marvelling at the realization. I have enjoyed reading every single one, but together they almost amount to something more, leaving a very distinct impression.

Perhaps this is indeed the goal of those publications pushing a theme each issue? It might be. Though I would still say that like poetry itself this isn't something which should be forced. And a good poem is still a good poem.

My thanks to all contributors and everyone involved. Enjoy the issue.

Mark Melton
Editor,
3rd Muse Poetry Journal