Question: Why did you write this book?
Charles Lopez Bruns: Most writers have a book in them, but few of them get written. This is the book I was meant to write. When I had the opportunity, I became determined to complete it.
Q: Is your book an autobiography?
CLB: It’s a memoir that explains how my identities evolved during my life and how they and my experiences as a son, stepson and father impacted my family and career. It also touches upon Cuban immigration and immigrants I’ve gotten to know. If it was an autobiography it would be much longer than 200 pages but not nearly as interesting!
Q: Since you’re a writer, did this book come easily or naturally to you?
CLB: No! It was the most challenging writing project I’ve undertaken since first learning the English language. It was hard work.
Q: How did you feel while writing this book?
CLB: Sometimes I laughed while writing down my memories, other times I became upset and nearly in tears. My emotions were all over the place. But I always felt a sense of accomplishment when I finished writing for the day or completed a chapter.
Q: What is the significance of the title, Fatherlands: Identities of a Cuban American?
CLB: You’ll have to read the book and find out!
–November 13, 2021
Charles Lopez Bruns 