Marcia Argueta Mickelson writes stories that sit right at the fault lines—between generations, between cultures, between who we’re told to be and who we’re becoming. After recently reviewing her latest young adult novel, I was eager to invite her into my writing room to talk less about plot and more about process: how she stays creative when life is loud, the habits that ground (and derail) her writing days, and why immigration continues to shape the stories she feels compelled to tell. In this interview, Argueta Mickelson reflects on creativity, persistence, and the quiet, deeply human moments that make writing—and reading—worth it.
Q: How do you nurture your creativity when life get busy or overwhelming?
A: When life gets busy or overwhelming, I oftentimes don’t have the energy to write. However, I still want to nurture my creativity. Some things that I do are: go for a walk around my neighborhood or do housework that frees up my mind for introspection. I am also trying to teach myself to play piano. I took a few lessons years ago, but I am definitely a beginner. I have some beginning piano books that I use to teach myself a few songs. Practicing those same few songs over and over again helps nurture my creativity and helps me feel creative.
Write on the World 