Crush is an independent literary magazine founded in 1982 by John Oakes, who had previously worked at Playboy and Penthouse. It features original fiction, poetry, essays, and artwork that explore themes of sexuality and eroticism. Although it was initially published quarterly until 1994 when it switched to bi-monthly publication before going out of print for good in 20016 due to financial difficulties, Crush has gained legendary status among readers and creators alike thanks to its controversial content. The magazine's name refers both to Oakes' fondness for crushing grapes into wine as well as his desire to create something new from existing material—an appropriate metaphor considering how much the magazine deviated from traditional models of publishing at the time.
The magazine was known for pushing boundaries when it came to sexually explicit material; each issue featured lurid illustrations by artists like Robert Williams, Kris Kuksi, H.R Giger, Dave McKean, and Mark Mothersbaugh alongside stories ranging from horror to science fiction with romance intertwined throughout. Despite being criticized by conservative groups like the Moral Majority which accused Crush of promoting "immorality," it quickly amassed a devoted following among those looking for something different than mainstream media could offer them. This passionate readership allowed the magazine to remain afloat despite numerous legal battles over obscenity charges and censorship efforts by local governments that were eventually unsuccessful because they relied on questionable interpretations of existing laws.
In addition to featuring notable works by established authors such as William S Burroughs, Angela Carter, Margaret Atwood, Robert Silverberg, Haruki Murakami, and Toni Morrison, Crush also provided an opportunity for lesser-known writers to get published without fearing repercussions or judgment based on their subject matter alone. Its willingness to take risks made it stand out in an industry where most magazines avoided anything too daring due to concerns about profitability or controversy. Even now decades after its final edition hit newsstands around the world, readers continue seeking out back issues online or trading physical copies amongst themselves through fan communities dedicated solely to keeping this unique piece of erotic art alive.
Despite its short lifespan compared to other publications within the genre, Crush's legacy lives on thanks largely due to its ability to capture imaginations through its bold depictions of desire - proving that sex doesn't have to be sanitized just so we can sell more products or satisfy societal norms when it comes down to it.