February is like a polar bear hug—it’s uncomfortably cold and you’re worried it might be getting ready to kill you. Our ninety-eighth issue is here to keep you company. Let Neal Lipschutz take you on a contemplative “Last Bus Ride.” Ponder the mysterious “Man in Front of Our House” with Robert Sharp. Have a sensuous encounter with Hannah V. Warren’s “Beautiful Mite” and relearn Classical philosophy with Frances Klein’s “Socrates the Frog.” Discover a rose is a rose is a samurai courtesy of Stefan Keller.

And don’t worry about that rumbling sound. That’s just how polar bears purr.

Enjoy February’s firm yet supple tight embrace online or download the .pdf.