Pacific Islander Focused Writing Prompts

By Marcus Harrison Green

In keeping with the theme of this month’s newsletter, the following three writing prompts are an exercise in empathy, consideration, and meditation of how some in the Pacific Islander diaspora are required to navigate the world. Fair warning that some prompts may require research, which is the point!

Exploring Dislocation and Identity in Pacific Islander Diaspora: Write a short story about a Pacific Islander protagonist who has moved to a distant country, navigating the challenges of dislocation while trying to preserve their cultural identity. How does the protagonist reconcile their sense of self with the new environment? What elements of their heritage become more significant in their new life, and what aspects of their identity become complicated or fragmented?

Generational Stories and the Legacy of Migration: Inspired by Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do, write a multi-generational narrative from the perspective of a Pacific Islander family that has migrated to a new country. Explore the evolving perceptions of "home" and "belonging" across different generations. How does each generation's relationship to their homeland differ? What tensions or connections arise within the family as they navigate the complexities of cultural preservation and adaptation?

The Cultural Relevance of Food in Pacific Islander Narratives: Drawing from Bich Minh Nguyen’s exploration of the cultural relevance of food, write an essay or creative nonfiction piece that delves into the significance of traditional Pacific Islander cuisine in maintaining cultural ties. How do food rituals, recipes, and communal meals serve as a connection to one’s heritage? Consider how food can act as a bridge or a barrier between generations, and how it shapes the identity of those living in the diaspora.