Introducing the Your DNA edition.

THIS MONTH, DNA’s readers become DNA’s contributors. It’s an exciting special edition which has been both exhilarating and rewarding to edit. A few months ago, we invited readers to send in their stories, creative writing, photography and illustrations for what we called a reader-made issue. My fear was that no-one would! I shouldn’t have worried. The response was terrific. Everyone has a story to tell and the adage that truth is stranger than fiction is proven on the following pages. There are heartbreaking personal stories from younger readers about coming out and finding their way. Sadly, some of the stories tell of those who didn’t make it. There are fascinating recollections of gay days gone by from older readers. To my surprise, there were several poetry submissions and two – one erotic and one humorous – are included. Not surprisingly, many DNA readers are skilled photographers and we received a broad range of physique and art works. Sex, drugs and dance floors are featured but, equally, so are accounts of gay life away from the bright lights. If there’s an over-arching theme it’s one of transformation. It’s a key element in the personal stories, photography, illustrations and fiction. Coming out, becoming the people we were always meant to be, or escaping from the constraints and expectations of others remains a constant in the lives of gay people, it seems. I thank everyone who generously submitted work for this issue. I’m sure that you’ll find these stories compelling and inspiring. You’ll certainly get to know your fellow DNA readers a little better and, I trust, judge them kindly. Until next month, enjoy.