Introduction
In the eighteenth issue of Young Ravens Literary Review, we delve into the treasure heap of minutiae that enrich our lives. While minutiae may only be small, precise details, they are far from mere trifles in their impact on who we are and what we truly value as humans.
For a “well-loved book” may become a “talisman” (Carlene M. Gadapee, 52). At other times, there is no book or magic item among the “colorful, breakable things” of the whole world that can fill the space of grief and questioning inside us (Paul Hostovsky, 64). Still, we seek out even the briefest moments of beautiful startlement to try and “escape an imperfect world” (Louis Efron, 44). Sometimes, even the simplest of routines and tasks like “sitting under shade” may provide us with gentle, sure purpose (Terri Glass, 76).
And yet, at some point we all find ourselves wondering if everything is all just a “gigantic, cosmic coincidence” (David Henson, 7). Perhaps. But perhaps pausing to marvel at even the most mundane thing is the true secret of minutiae because our “species survives on the strength of the stunned” (Angela Townsend, 8). In the end, aren’t we all just seeking to make sense of the “mosaic of stardust” that is our transitory existence (Julie Allyn Johnson, 70)?
For a “well-loved book” may become a “talisman” (Carlene M. Gadapee, 52). At other times, there is no book or magic item among the “colorful, breakable things” of the whole world that can fill the space of grief and questioning inside us (Paul Hostovsky, 64). Still, we seek out even the briefest moments of beautiful startlement to try and “escape an imperfect world” (Louis Efron, 44). Sometimes, even the simplest of routines and tasks like “sitting under shade” may provide us with gentle, sure purpose (Terri Glass, 76).
And yet, at some point we all find ourselves wondering if everything is all just a “gigantic, cosmic coincidence” (David Henson, 7). Perhaps. But perhaps pausing to marvel at even the most mundane thing is the true secret of minutiae because our “species survives on the strength of the stunned” (Angela Townsend, 8). In the end, aren’t we all just seeking to make sense of the “mosaic of stardust” that is our transitory existence (Julie Allyn Johnson, 70)?