Final Words from James Norton

Dear friends of Flak,

It's with a potent mixture of sadness, pride and affection that I bid you all farewell as Flak's editor in chief. I've taken a new job in New York that's going to strip me raw of time and creative energy. And as excited as I am about the new gig, I regret that I can no longer give Flak the attention and care that it needs.

For more than five years, Flak has been close to my heart. Some of my closest friends are people I've met throughout the course of this enterprise. And some of the kindest, most affirming words I've ever received have come from Flak's readers, who constantly surprise me with their generosity.

Anyone who has ever known a writer knows the constantly — and sometimes comically — self-destructive and self-doubting agony that we suffer daily. Your words have kept me going.

Regarding the future: Fear not, dear reader. You're in good hands. J. Daniel Janzen, our new co-editor, and Eric Wittmershaus, a Flak veteran, are both going to steer the ship with steady hands and deep reserves of skill and imagination. I'm excited to see where the magazine will be five years from now. I hope you'll all stick with Flak for the journey.

Upward and onward.

at your service,
Jim

James Norton is the author of the upcoming book "Burning Down My Flaksters' House," to be published by W.W. Norton.