Pulitzer on the Road in Austin: Author Hernan Diaz and Journalist Eli Saslow

On November 16, 2023, the Pulitzer Prizes hosted a discussion between 2023 Fiction winner Hernan Diaz and 2023 Feature Writing winner Eli Saslow at the Austin Central Public Library Gallery in Texas. This event was part of the ongoing Pulitzer on the Road series, bringing conversations with Pulitzer Prize winners and nominated finalists to audiences around the country.

Previously a 2018 Fiction finalist for his debut novel, "In the Distance," Diaz received a Fiction Prize for "Trust," his portrait of the interlocking milieux of family, wealth, and ambition through the resonant prism of interwar America. A recipient of the 2014 Explanatory Reporting Prize and a three-time Feature Writing finalist, Saslow was cited by the Pulitzer Board for his evocative portraits of people struggling with the repercussions of the pandemic, homelessness and wealth inequality. The conversation was moderated by Pulitzer Prize Administrator Marjorie Miller.

Diaz and Saslow discussed character building in journalism and fiction, considered whose narratives get told, and shared their thoughts on the creative process, including their tips on getting unstuck while writing.

The panel was presented in collaboration with The Library Foundation and PEN Across America.

To view a recording of the discussion, click the YouTube window above, or visit the Pulitzer Prizes' YouTube channel.

Prior to the event in Austin, Diaz and Saslow visited nearby Dripping Springs High School and spoke with high school students. More on that visit can be found here.