Lucía has a deep and powerful voice, one of those that are not designed to speak on tiptoe. At 24 years old, she raises it to rediscover herself, using the blank page almost as therapy, for public reflection on personal experiences and issues that society continues to consider uncomfortable. The daughter of Blanca Romero and Cayetano Rivera, who adopted her when she was Blanca’s partner, she has met her biological father (and has been disappointed at the same time). The last time we spoke she had a dream, now fulfilled, of writing a book. Nothing is what it seems (Espasa). “It’s not a memoir”, she points out, “it’s just the life of another teenager. A reflection of today’s world.
Bullying, mistreatment, mental health… Having an a priori privileged life and having some doors open more easily is not an infallible shield so that reality does not ask for passage. Not synonymous with happiness. Lucía Rivera has been exposed to the easy-going society from a very young age. She shares her work on her networks, her looks and how she puts on makeup to go out. Since she was 16 she works as a model. She comes from caste and her natural beauty, enhanced by a flattering Nars makeup that captures the light and tones of summer, is obvious.
What is ‘not what it seems’ in your life?
Today I want everything in my life to be what it seems. I don’t want to hide anymore.
Talk about uncomfortable topics. How many times has she had to put up with: “shut up, you’re prettier”?
Since I was born, my life gave me the signs that silence, and a fake smile, was more welcoming, but listening to the voices of other women made me get out of this comfort zone. Censorship is a kind of sexist torture. They prefer not to take us seriously, it’s the easiest. silence us.
I wanted to write a book and here it is. Hard and sincere…
I was afraid it would look dramatic. I called the editor as she was writing it, freaked out, asking if there was too much drama and it was a sad book. But it also has a lot of light.
What were you looking for when writing it?
I wasn’t looking for anything, and I ended up finding myself.
She recounts psychological and physical abuse by her partners and talks about widespread abuse among young people. What’s going on?
I don’t think it’s something current, we’re just less afraid to tell it now. More than growing, it is being verbalized. Before it was invisible.
Is it incredible that this happened to you?
No, none is exempt from danger. Nothing differentiates me from other women in this situation. It would seem strange to me if it were a strange case, but sexist violence is the order of the day and it is more than what is thought.
Do women lack self-esteem?
We have grown up with a doll in our arms that encourages external care and not internal care. High female self-esteem is frowned upon, and if you have it, they’ll make you think you don’t deserve it.
How do you get out of there?
I wish I had the answer, the right plan. Therapy is key. Slowly packing your suitcase while you gain strength.
A message for friends in bad relationships.
There is more world outside.
Vulnerability is fragility?
It’s just as frowned upon, but it’s the opposite. Playing strong destroys.
What would she say to a younger version of herself today to stand up to what she explains in her book?
Do not stop being yourself to please the rest. Don’t try to be what they expect of you. Fear is normal and it is a mirage of what matters to you; you must not let it paralyze you, much less silence you. You are not a dramatic freak, you have the right to speak up and ask for the respect you deserve. Do not settle and keep the crumbs. Don’t fail yourself for not disappointing others…
Is sincerity overrated? Do you often feel judged?
There is a fine line between being honest and rude. And yes, I feel very judged.
What lesson does one learn when a father disappoints?
That no one is free to disappoint you, and living with attachment to whatever is frustrating.
Have you received the hugs you expected from your readers?
I have received hugs even from haters.
Do you still see life in green hope?
It’s turning red passionate and brave again.
