I learned about the closing of Zanan from <a href="http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2008/02/07/silencing_a_voice_of_reason/">an essay by Farideh Farhi</a> published today in the <I>Boston Globe</i> (Boston, Massachusetts, USA).

In the United States, newspapers and books do not have to be "licensed." For 216 years, the nation's Constitution has contained a single sentence that permits criticism of the government and prevents the government from censoring speakers or publishers or interfering with anyone's religion or peaceful gathering. It is considered a basic right here that anyone can write and distribute any magazine she wants, without having to ask for permission. I think this is a valuable freedom and I hope someday everyone will be able to enjoy it.

Too bad the U.S. government frequently chooses to ignore the constitution and the rights it gives its people when its politically expedient to do so.

Hello,

My name is Matthias Koch. I`m a nineteen year old student from Switzerland. Two years ago I traveled with my family through Iran and we visited Teheran, Yazd, Shiraz, Kerman, Esfahan and Bam. Thats why I`m interested in Iran.
Actually I`m writing on an exposition about the life of young people in Iran. And for that reason I woud like to get in touch with young iranish people. I found your blog on the web and would like to get in touch with you. I would be pleased if you answer.

Matthias