Arzono Publishing is proud to present a collection of short stories, flash fiction, and poetry to fill the senses and soothe the soul. From writers around the globe, this year's anthology weaves deep emotion with loss, connections in love, and hope to move forward together in a tapestry of words.

In the year the world closed, people felt greater emotion than ever before. We, as a world, created and connected. As a society, we opened doors to new skills, new friendships, and even love. Windows to the soul opened and closed as we each dealt with the pain and the celebration of unity and diversity within a world locked down. We listened. We awakened. We grew. Some of us died... Many of us died. We all hurt.

This collection of stories and poetry isn't all about the past year, but each piece offers insight into the world as a whole through pain and promise, hope and loss. As we embark on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, readers will find themselves back in the heart of action, choice, and tremendous loss. In a world of farewell, a father and daughter, a husband and father, and lovers each say final goodbyes. A few of these stories are previews of larger projects authors have coming soon. Others ignite laughter and spark conversation. In poetry, readers will find themselves rooted in the spaces of social injustice and awakening and in places of hurt, loss, and hope. It has been a year we'll never forget.

ARZONO Publishing is proud to bring these creations to the world in our second Annual Anthology of short stories and poetry.