Now, the good news.

The problem with good 'zines is that they're good, and by virtue of being good, there's not a heck of a lot to say about them other than the fact that they're good. Still, with a combination of highlights, and more bad poetry, I can give you a general idea.

Spike Magazine renewed my faith in the UK's ability to produce a good 'zine. They brag that they're "picking the brains of popular culture," and it's completely justifiable. Spike's foray into the dirge known as pop culture is entertaining, witty, and exceedingly fun to read. Spike is a hobby for creator, Chris Mitchell, and I especially liked its philosophy on "external links to politically dodgy sites." I didn't find one piece of crap content; in fact, it was quite an enjoyable experience surfing through Spike's pages. My favorite articles included Chris Mitchell's review of Melanie McGrath's Digital Generation manifesto "Hard, Soft and Wet: In Search of the Digital Generation"; Robert Clarke's "Pre-Millenial Tension with Will Self" and Reverend Osagyefo Uhuru Sekou on Generation X and the crisis in the African American church. If you're desperately seeking on-line fringe intellectualism, try Spike. You'll love it. I swear.

My Poem for Spike:

Gayle O'Brien is anticipating lots of hate mail, and has chickened out of providing her e-mail address. When she's not being chicken, she can be found at home eating chicken.