Journal of Loss and Trauma: Passing the Torch

Dr. Kanako Taku recently took on the role of the editor for the Journal of Loss and Trauma. It is a position that she enjoys thoroughly. Recently, she published an editorial detailing her experience, and the touching moment she shared with the founder and editor of said journal, Dr. John Harvey. Dr. Harvey’s shared a song when it came for him to retire. Dr. Taku herself shared a meaningful song to keep up this tradition.

The song Dr. Harvey references is “Turn, Turn, Turn” by The Byrds, a celebration of the passing of time. Time’s duality is explored such as “gain and loss,” to “build up and break down” but the overall significance stating a purpose to the passing of time. No other song could be a better fit to the messages of the Journal of Loss and Trauma; experiences many are familiar with.

“Jidai” the song Dr. Taku shared shares similar themes of time passing. Written in 1975 by Nakajima Miyuki, highlights the repeating pleasures and sorrows of life, but at the end “those who continue the journey – someday they will find their home.” Another fitting depiction of trauma, where by those experiencing it can still become whole.

We thank both Dr. Harvey and Dr. Taku for sharing such sentimental music describing their own passing of time; passing the torch of editor between Dr. Harvey and Dr. Taku. We know that the journal is in good hands with Dr. Taku as editor!

Here are links to both Dr. Harvey’s final editorial before retirement as well as Dr. Taku’s own editorial about taking on the esteemed role.

Link to Dr. Harvey’s Editorial: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15325024.2022.2161151

Link to Dr. Taku’s Editorial: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15325024.2023.2228098?src=

Both songs can be found via the below links:

“Turn, Turn, Turn” By The Byrds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKP4cfU28vM

“Jidai” By Nakajima Miyuki: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pF_SG0bbsgI

Please also see the Journal of Loss and Trauma to read related research articles: https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/upil20