Dear Readers, 

The last few days of relentless snow and all-around cancellations have made it feel like I’ve stepped thoroughly out of my real life. My roommates and I committed ourselves to the house mouse lifestyle, holed up indoors, and funnelled our pent-up energy into making a glorious charcuterie board and binging a show. My responsibilities lay dormant under the 37.9 inches of snow, waiting for me to uncover them at a time when time (and everything else) seemed more real. 

But, alas, real life comes crashing through eventually. Today, I spent over three hours digging out my car, as well as the giant shared lot it was buried in. Two planks of wood, attempting to listen to my Zoom midterm review on my phone, a very kind and helpful neighbor, and ample time to think thrilling and productive thoughts (e.g. I should just be a pedestrian for life, What did I do wrong in a past life (and this one)? and I’m so stupid for not getting snow tires) later, I freed my car and decided I was firmly back in my real life. And it’s good. It’s messy. It’s full of people I love, kind strangers willing to help dig out your dumb car, and strange new joys all the time. As nice as it was to have a break for a few days, life only moves forward. 

This week in post-, our writers are also exploring self-hood and connection during these transient moments in life. In Feature, Eleanor presents a gripping list of “ins” and “outs” for the year, while Sasha reflects on self-making and the stories of our lives. In Narrative, Vanessa writes on constructing an identity colored by Americanism, movement, and freedom to vs. freedom from. Also in Narrative, our managing editors come together to share sweet stories about love of all different kinds. In A&C, Johan delivers insightful commentary on how female musicians are navigating and resetting expectations related to aging and womanhood. Lifestyle is also home to reflections on identity—Olivia introduces us to possible versions of the self, including the one that is true and changing, and Sofia writes on the persistence of connection through life’s endings and beginnings. And of course, don’t miss a timely wintry crossword from Ishan and a post-pourri comic from Maison! 

There’s a lot that’s still uncertain, perhaps still unplowed. While we all move bravely forward with our real lives, I hope you can still find time to take much-needed breaks as well—perhaps curl up with this issue of post- and find some comfort and joy here. 

Leaving snow angels,
AJ Wu
A&C Managing Editor