Summary
"When I Was Puerto Rican," by Esmeralda Santiago, is a poignant memoir that chronicles the author's formative years, beginning in the rural landscape of MacĂșn, Puerto Rico, and tracing her journey to the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York. Santiago paints a vivid picture of her childhood, marked by the vibrant culture, close-knit community, and unique traditions of her homeland.
The narrative explores the stark contrasts between the traditional, rural life of MacĂșn and the urban, immigrant experience in Brooklyn. In MacĂșn, Santiago, known as Negi, navigates the complexities of family life under the sometimes harsh but always present hand of her Tata, observes the roles and expectations placed on women, and grapples with the concept of love through radio programs and her parents' strained relationship. The story delves into the significance of 'dignidad' within the Puerto Rican community and its collision with American values.
As Negi transitions to Brooklyn, she faces the challenges of adapting to a new language, culture, and social environment. The memoir sensitively portrays the struggles of her mother, Mami, as she strives to provide for her children in a foreign land, battling poverty, prejudice, and the ever-present tension between her old and new identities. Negi's experiences translating for her mother and other Hispanic women at the welfare office underscore the challenges and moral ambiguities of immigrant life.
The book masterfully captures Negi's evolving sense of self as she confronts issues of identity, assimilation, and cultural hybridity. From her conflicted feelings towards her father and his new family to her evolving understanding of romantic love and sexuality, Negiâs story is one of self-discovery amidst cultural upheaval. The title, 'When I Was Puerto Rican,' evokes a sense of longing for a past identity, even as Santiago embraces the complexities of her present, hybrid existence.
Santiago uses her audition to the High School for the Performing Arts as a potent symbol of her journey, highlighting the barriers she has overcome and the dreams she dares to pursue. The memoir is enriched by the authorâs use of Spanish words and phrases, providing a unique insight into the Puerto Rican experience and challenging the reader to consider the nuances of language and culture.
Ultimately, "When I Was Puerto Rican" is a powerful and deeply personal exploration of identity, resilience, and the search for belonging. It celebrates the richness of Puerto Rican culture while offering a nuanced perspective on the immigrant experience in America.