For more than seven decades, Pilar Rotella’s life has been defined by a love of literature. Now, at 93, the former professor is continuing that journey through The Newbury of Brookline’s Writers’ Workshop, where she is proving that curiosity, creativity and lifelong learning have no age limit.
After more than 60 years teaching literature and inspiring generations of students, she continues to explore her passion through the community’s Writers’ Workshop, where members are encouraged to write, reflect, and share their unique perspectives with one another. Most recently, Rotella drew from a subject that has shaped much of her academic and personal life: Don Quixote, the classic novel she has studied, taught and loved for decades.
Born in Spain, Rotella knew by the age of 14 that she wanted to become a professor. She earned her first advanced degree at the University of Barcelona before coming to the United States to teach, initially for what was intended to be a two-year appointment. Instead, she built a remarkable academic career, earning graduate degrees from the University of Chicago while teaching full-time and raising three children. Over more than six decades in the classroom, she taught literature to undergraduate and graduate students before continuing to teach lifelong learners through continuing education programs after retirement.
“When I came to The Newbury, the Writers’ Workshop immediately caught my attention because writing has always been part of who I am,” said Rotella, member at The Newbury. “For most of my career, my writing was academic. This workshop gave me the freedom to discover another side of myself. One week I might write about the meaning of life, another about my first great-grandson, my favorite walk, or even soccer. It encourages creativity while surrounding you with thoughtful people who genuinely enjoy learning from one another. It has been incredibly liberating.”
That same curiosity has fueled her lifelong fascination with Don Quixote, widely regarded as the first modern novel. Rotella first encountered the work as a student in Spain and continued studying it throughout her career, teaching it to college students, graduate students and lifelong learners alike. At The Newbury, she recently shared that passion once again during a member lecture she affectionately described as her “swan song.”
“I’ve lived with Don Quixote for most of my life,” said Rotella. “My husband used to joke that there was another man in my life, and his name was Don Quixote. It has been a constant companion. Starting from my years as a student to my years as a professor and now here at The Newbury. Being able to share something that has meant so much to me with people who are genuinely interested, who ask thoughtful questions and who simply enjoy learning, is incredibly rewarding. That’s one of the wonderful things about living here. There is always someone eager to explore new ideas with you.”
Beyond the Writers’ Workshop, Rotella regularly participates in The Newbury’s book club, discussion groups, and educational programming, finding meaningful opportunities to connect with neighbors who share her love of reading, writing and thoughtful conversation. She credits these experiences with helping her transition into community life after moving from New York City while continuing to nurture the intellectual curiosity that has defined her life.
“I’ve always believed that teaching and learning are two sides of the same coin,” said Rotella. “If you’re teaching well, you’re constantly learning, and if you’re learning, you’re finding new ways to share those ideas with others. As long as we’re fortunate enough to continue learning, we should. Curiosity doesn’t have an expiration date, and neither does the desire to grow.”
“Members like Pilar embody what makes The Newbury such a special community,” said Caroline Rufo, life enrichment director. “Her passion for lifelong learning, generosity in sharing her knowledge, and enthusiasm for connecting with others inspires everyone around her. Our Writers’ Workshop and other enrichment programs are designed to help members continue pursuing the interests that bring them joy, purpose and connection, and Pilar is a wonderful example of that mission in action.”
For more information about the Newbury of Brookline or to schedule a tour of the community, please visit lifeatthenewbury.com.
About The Newbury of Brookline
The Newbury of Brookline, a premier Kisco Signature Community, is located on the historic grounds of Newbury College in Brookline, Massachusetts. This distinguished senior living community offers a refined blend of sophistication and comfort, featuring 81 independent living, 37 assisted living, and 40 memory care residences. Members enjoy premier amenities including a solar-heated indoor saltwater pool, rooftop bar, and state-of-the-art wellness center. Guided by Kisco’s Life Enrichment philosophy, The Newbury honors its storied past while providing an enriched lifestyle, a seamless continuum of care, and an experience of unmatched excellence in senior living.
