When reading the book "parrot in the oven", what is Mannys goal and how does he go about achieving it?
English · High School · Tue Nov 03 2020
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In the novel "Parrot in the Oven: Mi Vida" by Victor Martinez, Manny Hernandez, the protagonist, is a young Mexican-American boy who lives with his family in a poor neighborhood. Manny's primary goal is to find his place in the world and to improve his family's situation. He is on a quest for self-discovery and yearns for a sense of personal worth and respect within his family and community.
To achieve his goal, Manny takes a few key steps:
1. Searching for role models: Manny looks up to various figures in his life, such as his older brother Nardo and his father, as he tries to determine the kind of person he wants to become. He is observing and learning from their experiences and mistakes, even as he recognizes their flaws.
2. Taking on responsibilities: Manny tries to take on more responsibilities, such as seeking a job to contribute to the family's income. He is showing initiative and a willingness to grow up and take on adult duties, which is part of his search for identity and respect.
3. Exploring different paths: Throughout the story, Manny is exposed to various experiences and people who shape his outlook on life, including joining a boxing team and having a brief run-in with a gang. These experiences help him to figure out what he does not want to be, guiding him towards a better understanding of the right path for him.
4. Education and perseverance: Manny values education as a way out of poverty and a chance to achieve something. He faces numerous obstacles, but his perseverance in these efforts is an integral part of his journey to achieve his goal of self-improvement and establishing a dignified life.
5. Self-reflection: Manny often reflects on his actions, thoughts, and the world around him. This introspection is crucial as it allows him to understand himself better and to make decisions that align with the kind of person he wants to be.
As Manny takes the mentioned steps, he gradually comes to understand the complexities of life and begins to carve out his own identity, finding a balance between the harsh realities he must confront and the dreams he yearns to achieve.