HIBERNATION

The mind is its own place, and in itself

Can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.

– John Milton, Paradise Lost

“Hibernation” represents the essential requirement of human life to have times when we can completely absorb ourselves in thought. Whether we are in a good place in our lives, or are struggling through hardship, our minds are the deciding factors for whether or not we are content. It is our minds that control our reality. We have the tendency to get so caught up with the challenges and adversities of our busy day-to-day lives that we forget to pause and reflect, contemplate, and meditate on the things that truly matter. It is a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human to yearn for an understanding of both the world that surrounds us and our place within it. The pieces within “Hibernation” delineate the human need for reflection, introspection, and contemplation. Themes of love, relationships, adversity, passion, and individuality are intensely deconstructed throughout the chapter. This chapter serves as a reminder for all of us to take the time to appreciate and understand ourselves and the world we live in.

The values of introspection and self-reflection are deeply explored throughout the pieces within “Hibernation.” With vivid imagery and a flowing rhythm, Aurora Ryder’s poem “Bleeding Heart” sees the speaker reflecting on the value of writing as a method of cathartic release. The captivating short story “Guitar Man’s Daughter” by Keegan Mitchell dives into the mind of the protagonist, Martha, as she reflects on her life growing up in Charlottetown and her complicated relationship with her father. Meghan Dewar’s “Platonic” has the main character Theo examining his complex relationships with love and friendship, while her other short story “Glass Box” sees the narrator looking inward at their deteriorating mental health before reaching out for help. Dewar’s essay “You Have to Romanticize Your Own Life” reflects on individuality and self-acceptance and argues that people should view themselves as the main characters of their own narratives. The carefully-crafted four-part poem “Delusion, Projection, Growth” by Sofia Cervantes Romero sees the speaker earnestly reflecting on love, self-expression, and passion. Finally, “Hibernation” concludes with Austin Lynds’ compelling poem “Smallfields of Desert Sands” which powerfully explores themes of love and gratitude for loved ones. Each selection from this chapter encourages readers to understand themselves and to appreciate the things in their lives that truly have importance.

Reflection and Introspection,

Passion and Contemplation,

Love and Meditation:

Welcome to Hibernation.

Brodie Murnaghan

Editor