Sandra Cisneros
Writer
Born: Chicago, Illinois
Author of The
House on Mango Street, Woman Hollering Creek, Caramelo,
and several poetry collections, Sandra Cisneros has emerged as
one of the most influential Latina writers of our time. Her
works explore
feminism, religion, poverty, and oppression in mainstream society.
“The greatest influences on me were
the Chicago Public Library and my mother who made sure we had library
cards
before we even knew how to read.”
Cisneros’ childhood
was beset with ires y venires (comings and goings) between
Mexico and the United States. Consequently,
she often felt lonely and displaced. Years later, at graduate
school in Iowa, Cisneros experienced more alienation and
culture shock.
“I found my writing
voice after I realized I didn’t want to write like my classmates
and teachers. I wanted to create literature that would be enjoyed
by everyone, by laborers like mi padre, by taxi drivers, even
children.”
“I always tell my writing students that they need to write as if
they were wearing their pajamas. To write as if they were talking
to the one person they wouldn’t have to get dressed for.
That’s their writing voice, and they should write from
that place first.”
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