Young Writers in The Making

Learning new things can be a struggle for some. Having to drastically change your day-to-day lifestyle because of a catastrophic natural disaster is an example for many, especially the people of Puerto Rico. Islanders sometimes have a hard time finding the right words for how that experience was for them. two young, Puerto Rican poets, were able to find the right words and put them into inspiring books, “Lo Que Florece Entre Las Grietas” by Naomy Marie Rivera and “Irma, Maria, Fiona & Me” by Edcel Cintron. Both were kind enough to talk to me and share a little bit more about their books. They explained why they went into writing and their belief in representing the Puerto Rican community. 

In the heart of the Caribbean, amidst the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico, a young writer is making waves with her poignant verses and unwavering dedication to social change. Naomy Rivera, a Puerto Rican poet, who has a bachelor's in political science from the University of Puerto Rico, is capturing the essence of her island but also weaving a narrative that resonates far beyond its shores. Through her powerful words, Rivera is not just writing poetry; she's igniting a movement and putting Puerto Rico firmly on the literary map. Rivera's journey into the world of poetry began long before she even realized it. From a tender age, she found solace in writing, using pen and paper to express her deepest emotions. "I’ve always resorted to writing when expressing my feelings," she shares. "My mom says that when I was a child, I would write her letters expressing my feelings when I was mad at her." This innate connection with words laid the foundation for her future as a writer.  

However, it wasn't until the world was gripped by the COVID-19 pandemic that Rivera fully embraced poetry as a vocation. Amidst the isolation and uncertainty, she turned to her pen and notebook, delving deeper into the art form to understand and express her emotions. The pandemic became a motivation for her artistic growth, pushing her to take her craft more seriously. Rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage, Rivera's poetry draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of the island's literary tradition. Influenced by esteemed figures such as Francisco Matos Paoli, Julia de Burgos, and Lolita Lebrón, she infuses her work with a sense of social and political consciousness. For Rivera, poetry is both a form of self-expression and a tool for advocacy and change. "It was a duty to not only write poetry about my feelings but also about social issues," she emphasizes.  

Rivera's writing process is deeply personal, reflecting her intimate relationship with poetry. She refrains from strict rituals or routines, preferring to write whenever inspiration strikes. She captures fleeting emotions and profound insights, often weaving them into verses that explore themes of social justice, mental health, and personal growth. One of the challenges Rivera faces as a young poet is navigating the complexities of language and identity. Writing primarily in Spanish, she grapples with an industry that often favors English-language works. Despite this, she remains loyal in her commitment to her native tongue, refusing to compromise her identity for the sake of broader recognition. "My Puerto Rican identity is personified in every poem I write," she asserts.  

Through her poetry, Rivera seeks to challenge stereotypes and amplify marginalized voices, particularly within the Puerto Rican community. “It is not only important but a necessity. Today more than ever the voices of diverse Puerto Rican writers must be heard.”, recognizing it as a necessary step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Her work serves as a testament to the resilience and diversity of Puerto Rican culture, offering a nuanced portrayal that defies simplistic narratives.  

Looking to the future, Rivera envisions her poetry as a force for unity and empowerment. She aims to use her platform to foster a sense of collective identity among Puerto Ricans, reclaiming their place within the broader Latin American community. Her goal is to inspire readers to believe in the possibility of change and to recognize their agency in shaping the world around them. For aspiring poets and writers, Rivera offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: write. “To write for themselves first, but also for their communities and not for intellectuals.” Through the act of creation, she believes young artists can find their voice and make a meaningful impact on the world. As Naomy Rivera continues to write and challenge the status quo, with each line, she is reshaping perceptions, amplifying voices, and ultimately putting Puerto Rico on the map in a way that transcends geographical boundaries. In a world hungry for change and authenticity, her poetry serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a more just and compassionate society.  

Just like Naomy River, we have Edcel Cintron, another great young poet whose words resonate with authenticity, resilience, and cultural richness. Through his poetry in “Irma, Maria, Fiona & Me”, Cintron explores his own lived experiences as well as amplifies the diverse voices and narratives of his homeland. From his early days of creative exploration to his current pursuits as a doctoral student in English Studies at Illinois State University, Cintron's journey is as dynamic as the verses he pens. 

Cintron's journey into the world of poetry began in his formative years, where a passion for creativity simmered beneath the surface. From experimenting with drawing and visual storytelling to immersing himself in the vivid imagery of his surroundings, Cintron's artistic inclinations found expression in various forms. However, "it wasn’t until I started my PhD in English at Illinois State, where I got the motivation to start my writing career as a poet.” Among the myriad of influences that shape Cintron's poetic voice, one figure stands out—Andrea Beatriz Arango. Cintron draws inspiration from her profound exploration of Puerto Rican history and identity, particularly through the lens of children's literature. Through Arango's work, Cintron finds validation for the importance of diverse representation in literature and the power of storytelling to reclaim cultural narratives.  

For Cintron, the writing process is both a journey of self-discovery and a means of healing. “I’m kind of looking for a different routine that works for me in terms of writing new material.” From his early explorations of poetry as a therapeutic outlet to his current endeavors as a doctoral student delving into themes of trauma and resilience, Cintron's writing journey is deeply intertwined with his personal experiences. His dedication to reflective writing and introspection underscores his commitment to authenticity and vulnerability in his craft. In his poetry, Cintron delves into a myriad of themes, from childhood memories and family dynamics to the symbolic significance of food and cooking. Through his verses, he invites readers into a world imbued with cultural richness and emotional depth, offering glimpses into the tapestry of Puerto Rican life. Cintron's exploration of metaphors and imagery breathes life into his narratives, creating a vivid and immersive experience for his audience.  

As a young poet, Cintron faces his share of challenges and criticism, particularly in navigating the literary landscape and promoting his work. From the complexities of marketing oneself in a digital age to confronting misrepresentations of Puerto Rican experiences, Cintron remains steadfast in his commitment to authenticity and representation. “I don’t see poetry as a hierarchy or something that’s done accessible. I am a firm believer that anyone has the ability to write and be a writer.” His resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the importance of staying true to one's voice and vision. 

For Cintron, poetry is used as a vehicle for understanding, healing, and social change with a creative outline. He believes in the transformative power of storytelling to foster empathy, connection, and dialogue within society. Through his poetry, Cintron aims to challenge stereotypes, amplify diverse voices, and promote understanding of different cultures, particularly within the Puerto Rican community. “As a Puerto Rican representative, that is my mission to create their representation and be that representation.” As Cintron looks to the future, he envisions his poetry evolving into longer-form collections that delve deeper into themes of identity, representation, and cultural heritage. His aspirations extend beyond the realm of literature, encompassing a desire to inspire others, advocate for social change, and challenge the status quo. With each verse he pens, Cintron continues to put Puerto Rico on the map, one poem at a time.  

To aspiring poets and writers, Cintron offers words of encouragement and wisdom, “Keep writing that’s the biggest thing I should say.” He urges them to stay true to their voice, embrace their unique experiences, and never let criticism deter them from pursuing their passion. In a world hungry for authentic storytelling, Cintron's message resonates as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring writers everywhere. Through his poetry, Edcel Cintron invites readers on a journey of discovery—a journey that celebrates the richness of Puerto Rican culture, explores the complexities of identity, and underscores the transformative power of storytelling. As he continues writing and sharing his stories with the world, Cintron leaves a mark on the literary landscape, proving that true artistry knows no boundaries.