Jaquira Díaz Discusses Trust and Creativity in New Podcast Episode

A recent episode of the podcast A Dialogue of Writing features an enlightening conversation between host Mitzi Rapkin and author Jaquira Díaz, focusing on the themes of trust and creativity in the writing process. Díaz, known for her acclaimed memoir Ordinary Girls, delves into her relationship with self-trust and the challenges that accompany the artistic journey.

Díaz on the Creative Process

During the interview, Díaz candidly shares the emotional ups and downs she experiences while writing. She describes an initial excitement when starting a new project, feeling confident that her work will resonate. Yet, as the process unfolds, she often grapples with self-doubt, questioning her abilities and fearing that her writing may not meet her own standards. “I’m like, This is terrible. This is the worst thing I have ever written,” she reflects, illustrating the common struggle faced by many writers.

Despite these challenges, Díaz emphasizes the importance of perseverance. She asserts that trusting in her identity as an artist is crucial, stating, “I have to trust myself before anyone else will trust me and trust my skills as a storyteller.” This belief fuels her creativity, pushing her to discover new insights through her writing.

The Importance of Reading

Díaz links her writing journey to her deep love of reading, which she sees as a source of comfort and inspiration. She recalls how reading has always tethered her to the world, providing a space where she feels authentically herself. “I think my love of reading will propel me to make something that a reader will also want to read or enjoy,” she adds, highlighting the reciprocal relationship between a writer and their audience.

Throughout her career, Díaz has received numerous accolades, including a Whiting Award and a Florida Book Awards Gold Medal. Her work has been featured in prestigious anthologies such as The Best American Essays and The Pushcart Prize anthology. Her latest novel, This Is the Only Kingdom, has been longlisted for the Center for Fiction 2025 First Novel Prize, solidifying her status as a significant voice in contemporary literature.

Born and raised between Humacao and Fajardo in Puerto Rico, Díaz now resides in New York and teaches at Columbia University. Her experiences inform her writing, allowing her to explore themes of identity, culture, and resilience.

Listeners can subscribe to A Dialogue of Writing and download the episode featuring Jaquira Díaz on various podcast platforms to gain further insight into her creative process and literary journey.