Enter the writer's world-this collection of short stories, poems and imaginative essays is the culmination of lifetimes of experience, of memory, of love, of determination, perseverance and hard work. Writers write to tell our own stories, write our own histories, reveal our own truths. The deeper the writer goes in the process, the more you lose your way, and find yourself. The writers in this anthology are members of the San Diego Writers & Editors Guild, a nonprofit organization which promotes, supports and encourages writing for youth and adults. Royalties from the sale of "The Guilded Pen" help fund the worthy endeavor of supporting San Diego writers, allowing for the fullness of their expression. In a vital way, this anthology promotes writers by presenting an opportunity for publication, a fine and noble achievement. It encourages reading, by offering the best efforts of our local writers, from bestselling authors to previously unpublished poets, and the opportunity to discover the many literary styles and subjects found in our own communities. Kathi Diamant-author, writing instructor and coach.