The correspondence columns of newspapers are very popular with readers. People from all walks of life write letters to the editor and foreign visitors often express appreciation of Malta, stressing our hospitality and friendliness. Thus newspapers also draw international subscribers.

Letters in a newspaper signify direct participation and a democratic process: an expression of voices that seek to be heard. Correspondents often reveal constructive critical acumen. The plethora of topics discussed varies with the change of situations. Correspondents are convincingly logical; sometimes their letters are expressions of injured feelings; some rise in passion against administrative faults; others fall into the nadir of despair if ignored. Some seek justification; others justice.

Many are partial and biased. Agnostics and self-professed atheists spit out irreligious theories. Others are dogmatic lacking any proof. Some are offended and retaliate. Historians often publish newly fangled theories that disprove traditional studies. Politicians engage in polemics without reaching any solution. Political parties try to boost morale among flagging and apprehensive supporters. Academics produce a torrent of persuasive information quoting authorities to substantiate their arguments.

Philanthropic organisations plead for charities, even for missionaries abroad. Their publicity may assuage the suffering of the poor: in many ways, publicity relieves poverty. Personal stories always prompt Malta’s police force to take action. Thus the correspondence columns are the vehicles for what is morally upright: they touch generous consciences.

So do die-hard environmentalists. Their anger springs from watching the gradual deterioration of the countryside and its loving creatures; they also point alarmingly at crowded urban conurbations, especially the contagious consequences of pollution.

All this and more provide psychological relief to writers and readers alike.

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