Book Quote by Junot Diaz
“For my first three books the setting (or place if you will) has always been a given - N.J. and the Dominican Republic and some N.Y.C. - so from one perspective you could say that the place in my work always comes first.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, “Junot Díaz on Place and Storytelling”, 2015
He emphasizes that setting is the foundation of his narratives, shaping characters and plot before anything else.
In simple terms: Setting comes first in his stories.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize establishing a vivid place.
Themes
setting
identity
storytelling
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
literary
analytical
When to use this quote
- writing novels
- teaching creative writing
- travel journalism
Key Concepts
cultural geography
character development
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a specific location influence your characters?
- Can a story succeed if the setting is weak?
A Different Perspective
A strong setting alone cannot carry a story without compelling characters.
