Issue 12 of Apogee Journal explores themes of survival, resilience, and the radical act of living in a world that continually marginalizes and oppresses certain bodies. Featuring a diverse range of writers and visual artists, this issue delves into the complexities of recovery and resistance in the aftermath of systemic violence and neglect. Through poetry, prose, and art, the contributors celebrate the beauty and danger of marginalized existence while questioning ownership of the body and the ways we cope with generational trauma. Works like Justin Davis’ “Sketch with Beetle, Pessimism, and Scorpion” and Matan Gold’s lyrical exploration of Black survival and materialism push the boundaries of identity and self-expression. Feliz Moreno’s “Family Cherry Tree” brings humor into the conversation as a coping mechanism for domestic violence, while Imani E. Jackson’s “Slow Coup (for ancient music)” sings of kindness as a radical, reciprocal act. The visual art in this issue, including Naima Green’s powerful cover image “Mhysa,” challenges conventional representations of power and femininity, reclaiming space for Black, queer, and femme identities. Issue 12 invites readers to hold space for these voices, to bear witness, and to imagine a form of living that balances sharp resilience with tender aftercare, all while asking the difficult questions about how we continue to speak and live in a world that seeks to silence us.
