You bring up a lot of interesting points, Niña. I think what you’ve said about your culture and upbringing is especially interesting. I was always encouraged to write and to express myself, but I still had many of the same doubts about my writing that you bring up in your article. For me, writing under a pen name gave me the freedom to experiment (which I’m still doing) and to write in different genres — to really be free and creative. I’ve loved it and I’ve loved the interaction with other writers. Whatever you decide, I wish you all the best and I look forward to reading more from you!