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The Mestiza, Borderlands, and Living Cross Culturally

In our readings for this week, the terms Mestiza, Borderlands, and cross-cultures are used.  There are many changes in tone and the intensity of these changes appear to rise up off the page. Notice how Cofer uses details to connect us to her world: "Not many years later that area too would be mainly Puerto Rican. It was as if the heart of the city map were being gradually colored in brown-cafe-con-leche brown. Our Color" (Bryant, 2010, p. 232). What deeper meaning is Cofer intending?

Look for use of repetition in your readings. What do the authors want us to learn through this repetition? Again, read for meaning, but also read for the experience: the sound of the words, the images, and the rhythm of the words.

As you read, you will want to think about the historical and cultural contexts in which the authors lived and wrote. Place yourself in their shoes and try to understand what is it like to not understand the language where you are living, to not understand and join in, or to not be free to communicate your thoughts and ideas. Think about how it must have felt living between the traditions you grew up with and the culture you currently face. You may even ask yourself: how well would I have done in this environment?

Judith Ortiz Cofer

Judith Ortiz Cofer  often credits her grandmother's avid storytelling to her love of language and writing. In her writing, she "shows the tension that is an integral part of a life lived within and between two cultures" (Bryant, 2010, p. 230).

Sandra Cisneros

Sandra Cisneros  writes with a provocative, satirical, and often renegade style while exploring the changes Mexicans face immigrating to the United States: steadfast commitments, the resilient woman who endures hardships, heartbreaks, love, alienation, poverty, and renewals (Bryant, 2010, p. 202).  Reference

Bryant, J. (2010). The Pearson Custom Library of American Literature.

Rasmussen College English Department. New York, NY: Pearson Learning Solutions.