AustLit

'With this issue of Desiderata enters upon its fifth year. Through adverse times it has struggled to keep alive, and there are signs now that it might yet fulfil the object with which it was originally launched: to provide a regular literary publication in Australia, offering unprejudiced criticism and guidance. In its earlier days one Australian newspaper, in acknowledging a review copy, asked, "Who shall guide the guides?" We have been able to offer only our own knowledge and experience, and the contribution of others often more qualified to write upon literary matters. Appreciation from all parts of Australia and from overseas assures us that our efforts have not been in vain. If the esoteric have found Desiderata of no help, many less exacting have come to value it.' (Source: introduction)