In this first issue of Grim & Gilded, I went back and forth as to whether or not I wanted to include a small note from myself. This journal is not about me, after all, but rather the fantastic artists who have shared a piece of themselves and their universes through their words. In the end, a small bit of vanity won out - but not without purpose and good intentions:

As a fledgling literary journal, G&G was established with the thought that it could be a very small corner of the internet where more darkly tinged narratives could find a place to call home. When outlining what each potential issue would look like, I hoped for enough submissions to allow for two short stories, three flash fiction pieces, and three poems - maybe.

Imagine my surprise when I received hundreds of amazing, wonderfully written pieces in the very first open submission call. I was ecstatic - not only because G&G was receiving submissions, but because talented authors were gifting me the opportunity to glimpse inside their creativity - to see their art, and experience their magic and craft.

As a result, this first issue contains twenty selections - seven short stories, five flash fiction pieces, and eight poems. I wish to extend my sincere thanks to each and every single writer who submitted to Grim & Gilded - and I am so excited to read more as the year moves onward. This journal would not be possible without you.

Ultimately, Grim & Gilded would like to pay writers for their pieces - and while that is not yet possible, perhaps one day soon it will be. If you are so inclined, Reader, please check out our Ko-Fi donation page here.

Thank you so much for your support.

-Carter Brighton
Founder and Editor-in-Chief