“Trust” evidently highlights the evanescent line between history and fiction.ĭiaz’s discussion was not only informative, but also intriguing for audiences who have yet to read his novel. Diaz said that trust is a concept akin to any novel, and therefore, through his book, he invites readers to question the trust they place in certain historical texts. He stated that part of his book’s purpose was to challenge the cliches that were imposed on women – especially that of women as victims – and also to give women a voice in the world of economics. Last in Diaz’s book, “Futures” is a collection of diary entries written by Mildred.Īccording to Diaz, the four-part structure was necessary to tell such a story. “A Memoir, Remembered,” the third section, is set in the 1920s and is told by the tycoon’s former secretary, who discovers the truth of his story when she finds a book written by his wife Mildred. Realizing this, he sets out to rewrite his own version of the first novel, arguing that his version is the accurate account. It is a fragmentary memoir told by a fictional character who comes to discover that he himself is Rask. Personally, I find the book’s second section, “My Life,” to be the most exciting one. Throughout the story, he increases his wealth. The first section, “Bonds,” introduces its protagonist Rask, a tycoon during the 1870s whose fortune comes from tobacco money. As a whole, “Trust” explores who holds the monopoly upon our trust in the economic system.īefore delving into the peculiar structure of his book, Diaz provided a quick synopsis. Each of these novels showcases a different fictional character that in some way becomes entangled with economics and is part of a wealthy hierarchy. While one book, “Trust” essentially comprises four sections, also known as novels. Diaz spoke about his latest novel, “Trust,” analyzing its deeper meaning and how it discusses contemporary issues that relate to the world’s economic system. Mansfield Public Library is known for hosting author talks virtually across 37 states, presenting acclaimed authors to talk about their most popular books. 27, Mansfield Public Library hosted a special virtual event featuring the finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for fiction and the PEN/Faulkner Award, Hernan Diaz.

Trust by hernan diaz summary