Volume 1, Issue 4 (2021)

Dear Readers,

The Diamond Line is a student-run publication at the University of Arkansas that gives a platform to our undergraduates’ voices by presenting evocative explorations of the human condition. This fall semester we decided to forgo a theme, although we retained the magazine’s characteristic vulnerability in storytelling. Our editorial team discussed how formative the collective consciousness was in previous editions and elected to wait and see what patterns emerged, prioritizing quality of craft over conformity. The stories we selected create a tapestry of ideas that to us reflect the beauty and meaning discovered in a post-lockdown world.

The ability to connect with each other in person again led to a creative renaissance for The Diamond Line. The collaborative tone of the fourth issue shines through its design. Throughout production, the staff found ways to leave our unique signature within these pages- quite literally, everyone’s handwriting was used for titling pieces. One of our editors hand illustrated each staff member, and the print team embellished the text with their own sketches, demonstrating the spirit of individual contribution we wanted to capture in this issue. While the content ranges from impending ecological disaster to philosophical musings, this issue establishes a newfound sense of coalition between artists, authors, and editors.

We are glad our magazine ended up in your hands. Please, enjoy the journey.