The political reforms (Glasnost and Perestroika) led by Mikhail Gorbachev in the Soviet Union.

As a literary publication, a feature centered on this specific issue would likely highlight:

The release of films like Rambo III or the upcoming cult classic Heathers .

The is a biannual literary magazine published by Rutgers Preparatory School. Number 35, released in December 1988 , represents a significant archival look at student creative expression from that era.

A retrospective feature could connect the creative works to major world events of late 1988, such as: