EDITOR'S NOTE

Dear Reader,

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​We're so excited to publish the winners and shortlisted writers of our inaugural Poetry Contest in Sophon Lit's sixth issue—a warm congratulations to first-place winner Fiona Jin and runner-up Ivi Hua once again! In Issue 6: Flare, we see poetry reveling in the bright, warm moments of everyday life, whether it be a "night train hurtling itself into the dawn" in Michelle Li's poignant "In Rhode Island" or the beautiful reminder "Remember that you are magic enough to build bone from birria burrito" in Zoe Reay-Ellers' "Sonnet as list of things to tell the daughter that I might someday have." These stories and artworks explore the whimsical intersections of reality and fantasy, where "thrumming homesick magic beams" situate readers in fairytale worlds such as that of "Changeling" by Ellis Jamieson, rife with light and life. 

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As always, we extend our sincerest thank you to our contributors, submitters, and readers—you are what keeps Sophon Lit alive. ​We hope you find joy in these works of art; that they might act as flares in otherwise difficult times. 

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With love and gratitude, 

Ava Chen

Editor-in-Chief