By Linda Donaldson

Your editors have chosen “Revenge – Sought or Untaken” as the theme for the Summer 2021 issue of our Pearl S. Buck Literary Journal. It is a rich topic that sparked a little etymological research for me.

“Revenge” has many evocative synonyms such as vendetta, payback, karma, or comeuppance. It has been described as sweet or a dish best served cold. Colorful phrases such as even the score or out of spite come to mind. Plus, a new one for me, revengineering, the act of orchestrating a revenge plot!

Common colloquial phrases describe the act as seeking revenge, taking revenge or getting revenge.

Anger, one of the seven deadly sins (aka wrath or rage) is an intense emotional state involving a strong, uncomfortable and non-cooperative response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat.

Famous authors have considered revenge:

“Revenge is the act of passion; vengeance is an act of justice.” – Samuel Johnson

“When you begin a journey of revenge, start by digging two graves: one for your enemy, and one for yourself.” – Jodi Picoult

“Living well is the best revenge.” – George Herbert

“Not forgiving is like drinking rat poison and then waiting for the rat to die.” – Anne Lamott

“He that has revenge in his power, and does not use it, is the greater man.” – Wellins Calcott

We editors feel with the theme of Revenge, there will be plenty of food for thought for you writerly chefs to serve up for our readers!

We have set July 31^st as the deadline for your dish on our menu of retaliation.

Click here for our Submission Guidelines.