Miguel Molina Díaz (Quito, 1992) is a writer, lawyer, columnist, and college professor. He earned a Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) from New York University (NYU) in Creative Writing in Spanish. He earned his law degree from the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ). In 2017, he published his book of poems, “Postales,” and in 2020, he published a book of short stories, “Cuaderno de la lluvia.” As a columnist, he received an Honorable Mention in the 2017 Journalistic Excellence Award from the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA), in the Opinion category. His columns have been published in several magazines in Ecuador, such as La Hora, El Comercio, La República, and Mundo Diners.
This article was updated on March 13, 2024.
Early Life and Education
Born in Quito, Ecuador, in 1992, Miguel Molina Díaz embarked on a journey that would establish him as a multifaceted intellectual, seamlessly bridging the realms of literature and law. His academic pursuit began at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, where he not only secured his law degree but also nurtured his passion for literature, leading him to delve into comparative literature studies at the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona. Molina Díaz’s commitment to education is further evidenced by his acquisition of two master’s degrees: an MFA in Creative Writing in Spanish from New York University and a degree in Constitutional Law from the Universidad de Valencia, Spain.
Literary Career
Miguel Molina Díaz’s literary career is marked by a versatile output that spans poetry, non-fiction, opinion journalism, essays, and narrative fiction. His first published work, “Postales” (2017), introduced him as a poet with a keen eye for capturing the essence of moments and sentiments. This was followed by “Cuaderno de la lluvia” (2020), a collection of non-fiction chronicles that explore themes of travel and displacement with a reflective and engaging narrative voice. His stories and essays have graced various magazines and anthologies, showcasing his ability to traverse genres with ease.
The novel “Bruma” (2023), published by Seix Barral, marks a significant milestone in his career. Originating as his master’s degree project at New York University, “Bruma” weaves a rich narrative that reflects on the ironies and struggles of becoming a writer. This work not only solidifies Molina Díaz’s place in contemporary literature but also serves as a profound exploration of identity, ambition, and the art of storytelling.
Teaching Career
Parallel to his literary achievements, Miguel Molina Díaz has made substantial contributions to academia. As the director of the School of Law at the Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, he influences the next generation of legal minds, blending his expertise in law with a deep commitment to education. His role as a university professor extends beyond the confines of law, as he engages with students on a variety of subjects, including literature and writing. This dual focus on law and literature in his teaching career reflects Molina Díaz’s interdisciplinary approach to education, highlighting the interconnectedness of the humanities and legal studies.
Recognition and Contributions
Molina Díaz’s work has not gone unnoticed. He has received accolades such as an Honorable Mention in the Opinion category at the 2017 Journalistic Excellence Award from the Inter-American Press Association. His writings for prominent Ecuadorian outlets like “El Comercio,” “La República,” and “Mundo Diners,” among others, have made significant impacts, offering insightful commentary on societal and cultural issues. Furthermore, scholarships and grants, including a full scholarship for his Master’s program at New York University, underscore the recognition of his talent and dedication to his craft.
Conclusion
Miguel Molina Díaz embodies the Renaissance spirit of the modern age, seamlessly merging his vocations in law and literature to carve out a unique space in Ecuadorian cultural and intellectual circles. His works offer a window into the soul of his generation, exploring the complexities of modern life with sensitivity, insight, and a profound understanding of the human condition. As both an author and educator, Molina Díaz continues to inspire, challenge, and enlighten.
Videos
Miguel Molina Díaz interview
Miguel Molina Díaz presents his book of poems “Postales”
Works
- Postales (Jaguar Editorial, 2017)
- Cuaderno de la lluvia (Dinediciones, 2020)
- Bruma (Seix Barral, 2023)
This article was updated on March 13, 2024.