The Centifictionist

Uma Hamzić’s 98 word microfiction, “Why I Don’t Eat Birthday Cake”, will appear in the fifth issue of The Centifictionist (Vol. 3, Issue 1, Spring/Summer 2022). Uma graciously answered a few brief questions for us. Read the interview below.

1. What inspired the story “Why I Don’t Eat Birthday Cake”?

I was talking to my mother about her move to the United States as a war refugee, and what she missed most about her hometown. Her answer was a childhood favorite food. This inspired me to write a microfiction based on her experiences.

2. What inspires you and your writing?

Mostly my Bosnian heritage, but told through my American experiences. I’m proud to be part of two incredible histories and promote Bosnia through every piece I write.

3. What keeps you going when experiencing times of misery and despair?

I do admit that sometimes getting to turn a bad event into a good story is what keeps me going. However, I pray for one thing regularly: may all the bad things in my life happen for good reasons.

4. What advice do you have for microfiction writers?

Find the most ordinary action and twist where it came from.

5. Is there anything else that you would like people to know about you and/or your writing?

I put mayonnaise on my pizza. In all seriousness, I’m just starting out as a writer. I treasure anyone reading this. If you’re from Bosnia, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

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Uma Hamzić is an American-Bosnian living in Sarajevo. In her academic life, she is graduating from International Burch University in English Language and Literature, with the hopes of pursuing a Ph.D. in discursive identities. At night, she types literary fiction for nostalgic adults. The eclectic collection of freelance jobs comes in between. Her work can be found in the Spring 2022 Issue of The Last Girls Club. Twitter: @HamzicUma.