Rachael asked Julia Alvarez:

Antonia frequently recites lines from her favorite authors and poets, and their words provide comfort and wisdom. Do you have poems, songs, books, or other stories that you return to when you need comfort? How have the arts helped you in a dark time?

Julia Alvarez I'm afraid that Antonia has inherited the literary DNA of her creator! I, too, have stories, poems that are my "string in the labyrinth" and help me navigate my way. Many times a poem or passage reminds me of what I would otherwise forget. I don't mean "facts," but something more elusive, vital, and necessary. Certain poems and stories help me when I am feeling lost, disheartened, and in despair. I think of them as food for the soul, the fuel that runs my life. But most of all I feel accompanied by certain poems and stories. I feel less alone, and that is a great comfort, especially in dark times.

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