“The conventional definition of reality,  
and the idea of ‘normal life’, mean nothing.” 

-Sigmar Polke 

Dear Reader,

The theme of Working Draft’s second issue, “the new normal,” seemed to have fallen in our laps.  

In a year filled with unknowns and limitations, we’ve all struggled to find our way through a world without instructions.

The pandemic has forced us to grapple with a hard truth: “normal” is not stationary.  

So while the “new normal” to some has become a buzzword and cliché, the theme inspired stories and sparked conversations that are anything but.  Just as diamonds are created under intense pressure, so too are strong, resilient, and beautiful things forged from trial and difficulty.

The 43 articles in this issue explore how people overcome change in unexpected and profound ways. 

Join our 2021 Creative Communications graduating class as we unearth the diamonds in our lives and in those around us.  

Thank you for reading.  

— 2021 Working Draft contributors and editorial board

Don’t know where to start? Try these reads: