Editor’s Letter

They say the third time's a charm—I think I can attest to that.

In the ephemeral duration of a mere year, Primadonna has experienced a multitude of transformations, crossed paths with countless personalities, and been held in the affectionate grasp of the most formidable, burgeoning talents of New York City’s creative sphere. Through a succession of now three issues, Primadonna seems to be transmuting itself into a parallel universe version of what we know as a traditional publication. What initially commenced as my 18-year-old self’s brainchild of a magazine has now evolved into an autonomous creative entity; now the result of an entire team’s creative vision. And in our metamorphosis thus far, the butterfly effect has been no stranger to our journey.

As the team and I directed our attention toward the editorial approach of this particular issue, little did we anticipate the profound transformation that would ensue—both for our publication and for us as individuals. Thus, the theme of "Metamorphosis" proved to be a most fitting and poignant choice for this issue. It encapsulated the essence of our current state as a publication, steered by a cohort of intrepid twenty-somethings.

The current climate amongst our generation in 2023 evinces an aura of rejuvenation and rebirth, a phenomenon that is particularly apt for Primadonna’s state presently. As the editor-in-chief of this publication, my aspiration is to narrate tales that enrich our relationship with the world that envelops us, enabling you to immerse yourself into the pages of Primadonna. With new faces and visions, we've taken risks, broken rules, and stepped out of our comfort zones. This has allowed us to shed the restraints that held us back and undergo a much-needed metamorphosis. We've grown tremendously and transformed our autonomy, enabling Primadonna to break free from its previous bounds.

The process of creating this issue has felt like entering the boxing ring—it's pushed me beyond my limits and forced me to reckon with both my creative and personal selves. It's been arduous, convoluted, and elusive, throwing me off-balance more than once. Just as a boxer must constantly adapt their strategy in the ring, we too must be willing to shed our former selves and embrace new iterations of who we are becoming in order to grow and evolve. Thus, why I made the decision to take myself on in a match—it was time for the idea of who I am as an individual creator to face its final K.O. If there's one lesson I've learned as an individual, it's that we are not defined by any single thing—be it a belief, an image, or a particular trait.

So don’t get used to the Primadonna you knew then or know now. It is my sincere hope that through my efforts, and the contents of these pages, you will be inspired to navigate your own journey of metamorphosis, even if it entails confronting the discomfort of change.

To my fabulous team, and our incredible contributors, thank you for encouraging me to exist loudly and create endlessly. You are the reason why I am able to take on such a role with grace and integrity, and I cannot wait to see where we embark on our journey next. Your dedication, talent, and relentless efforts do not go unnoticed.

Whether you’re new to the Primadonna community, or a returning reader, I find it of utmost importance to express my gratitude towards you for being here. It takes a village, and if it weren’t for your continued interest and wondrous talents, Primadonna wouldn’t be able to escape the cocoon it’s been growing in.

Thank you for encouraging us to take flight.

Shoot for the stars and beyond,