Cedars, Spring 2023

that the author has more knowledge of than any of us. That might mean a unique setting in fiction, any deeply specific subject matter in non-fiction, or a really strong grasp of a particular form for poetry. " Vest and Benefiel both said that one of the difficulties the "Cedarville Review" editors face is handling Christian allegorical writing . Benefiel said, "I think we have a consistent worry in the editorial board that students think their writing needs to be 'Christian enough' to get accepted into the Review, e.g . overly Christian in subject matter. Sometimes this produces great art. Much more often, it limits a lot of creativity that we'd really welcome." Any exceptional visual or literary work created by a Christian can be a vessel for the Gospel message. "I'd advise our contributors to relax, " Benefiel said . "Be honest on the page no matter what the subject matter, and let that speak for itself. " So, why should students care about the "Cedarville Rev iew"? To be featured in the "Cedarville Review" is an excellent addition to an early literary career. For Vest, "publishing a piece is difficult, but we hope to give every student the chance to share their voice and thoughts and creativ ity. " There is an average 30% acceptance rate for the "Review," according to Vest, but that shouldn 't deter anyone from submitting something . Getting published in the "Cedarville Review" is quite an accomplishment. Even for readers not interested in being featured in the "Review", it is still worthwhile to take the time to read it. Benefiel said "reading beautiful art encourages us to worship the Creator. It's also a great way to explore new ideas ...We learn a lot and grow a lot by seeing into other people's visions of the world through their art. " Vest agreed, saying that reading the journal "supports both the campus and the students . It is encourag ing to see the hard work that students have put into their submissions and even more encouraging to see the dedication and talent that the writers of Cedarville University show. All copies of the "Cedarville Review, " are available online through their website . Alternatively, a hard copy of the "Review" can be purchased . For more information about this journal, visit their website: https :// digitalcommons.cedarville .edu/ cedarvillereview/ . Ashleigh Clark is a junior political science major She plays electric bass and lives in New York with her four cats, Vincent, Chubby, Mable, and Scout. ''Our cCoubtB are tra-itorB, Spring 2023 Graphics by Corrissa Smith

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