Thirty-one years ago, it was suggested that I start publishing my early
researches in bonsai history as articles. Jack Wikle was the editor of
the ABS Bonsai Journal at the time and he warmly welcomed my first tale
of the old Japanese Noh play, Hachi-No-Ki. Little extra work was needed
on my initial draft. While waiting for an opening in the future
publication schedule, I presented Jack with a second article, Some
Bonsai Futures. He sharpened his pencil and caused me to dig deeper,
coming up with a better written piece. He felt that it would be a
stronger introduction of me to the bonsai community than my first
written article. While he wasn’t able to get either published during his
brief tenure as editor, he definitely helped me make these two worthy
contributions to the literature. Thank-you very much, Jack, and Best
Wishes always.
Robert J. Baran
Bonsai Researcher and Historian