The idea of being applauded and acknowledged for one’s performance may sound pleasing at first. However, a curtain call can be defined in varying ways; for example, a performer who failed to perform adequately in their opinion would be embarrassed and ashamed to receive a grand curtain call at the end of it all. However, despite whatever feedback we get from our audience, all the bests and the worsts share one thing in common – everything ends, with no exceptions. As The Granite Tower’s (GT) own 2021 finale, we aim to look back and reflect on the year with this issue’s theme of a curtain call.

For this issue, we looked back at some of the major events that took place in recent months, with the intention of acknowledging those that deserve recognition and learning from those that point to society’s glaring flaws. The Feature section covers South Korea’s noteworthy achievement in launching a rocket to the vast expanses of space and the ways that the government is dealing with the waste management crisis. Our Cover Story delves deeply into Netflix’s successes and the continuing controversies that surround its services. All in all, our reporters have presented their unique perspectives and voices in discussing some of 2021’s most glaring issues.

GT has also invited two guest reporters who shared their stories on the most pivotal and special moments of their lives. Along with these genuine stories that our guest reporters shared with us, we hope our readers can take the time to reflect on their year as well, enjoying their own finales. As the Editor-in-Chief for the second semester of 2021, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the reporters, editors, and readers of GT, without whom we could not have come this far. GT, along with our guest reporters wish our readers the best of luck with 2021’s curtain call. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!