Would You Give Up Your Freedom to Be a Writer? Meet Sor. Juana Inés de la Cruz, Mexico's First Feminist Writer and Nun

Reed, Write, and Create

On episode 37 of the 'Reed, Write & Create' podcast, you’re getting a pep talk about what can happen when we truly commit ourselves to our writing life.

And I am using the life and work of Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, a renowned 17th-century Mexican nun, as my source material. Be clear, Sor Juana was no ordinary nun. She was a renegade and a revolutionary who used #NunLife to create the literary life she desperately desired.

Sor Juana, known for her poetic prowess, and advocacy for the education of women, gained fame through her literary salons and social commentary, despite facing societal and church opposition. Her writings, which spanned poetry, plays, and social critiques, continue to inspire today, and she is a pivotal literary figure we can all learn from and admire.

I know this episode and the legacy of Sor Juana will inspire all of you BIPOC writers to pick up your pens and create new narratives that can change the world.

If you want to read a full biography about Sor Juana, check the biography by Octavio Paz called, Sor Juana.

If you’d like to read a lovely collection of Sor Juana’s most popular poems and writings, including her feminist manifesto, try this collection titled, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz.

Read one of Sor Juana’s most popular poems in translation, “You Foolish Men.” The meaning behind this poem still rings true today.

If you want more information, inspiration and resources for your literary life, visit the Reed, Write, and Create website.

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