Who's right? Editors or writers?

What I consider my first “real” publication was a flash piece called “Father” which was picked up by Amsterdam Quarterly for their AQ 38 September 2023 online issue and their 2023 printed year book.  This wasn’t a Canadian publication or only for those with mental health issues.  It was an international publication, and I felt that it was the first step towards becoming a legitimate author. 

The editor contacted me and asked that the last paragraph of the piece be removed.  I was so chuffed that they wanted to publish my piece I agreed without much thought.  Afterall, I figured, the editor must know best.  However, as time has passed, I wish I had pushed back a little because the piece feels unfinished to me without that last paragraph.

The editor felt that the last paragraph resolved that what was happening was a dream, and they wanted to leave it ambiguous.  Looking back, I don’t feel that paragraph implies it was a dream but continues the tension about what is really happening.  There is truth buried in the dreamy aspects.

When I was the artist in residence for the Tamarack Festival in September 2025, I used “Father” as one of the pieces inspired by my father’s artwork and included the original final paragraph.  Here is the link to the full piece with the artwork associated with it.  I would love to see your comments about which version you think is stronger!

My father's painting "Virgin Lake" which inspired the piece "Father."