Literary Analysis: The Development of the Theme of Identity in "Response to Executive Order 9066" and "Mericans"
In literature, the exploration of identity can serve as a profound reflection of societal issues and personal experiences. Both "Response to Executive Order 9066" by Dwight Okita and "Mericans" by Sandra Cisneros engage with the theme of identity, albeit in differing contexts and styles. Through their respective use of literary devices such as imagery, characterization, and tone, both authors portray the complexities of identity amidst cultural displacement and societal alienation.
In "Response to Executive Order 9066," Okita uses imagery to evoke the emotional turmoil experienced by Japanese Americans during World War II. The speaker reflects on personal and collective identity through vivid descriptions of their surroundings and experiences. For instance, the juxtaposition of ordinary life with the trauma of internment captures the dissonance between one's self-perception and the imposed stereotype of the "enemy." Okita's use of first-person narration enhances the intimacy of the speaker’s struggle, allowing the reader to feel the profound loss of identity that comes with being unjustly categorized. In contrast, Cisneros crafts a more narrative-driven approach in "Mericans," where the protagonist, a young girl, grapples with her bicultural identity as she navigates between her Mexican heritage and American culture. Through the use of dialogue and specific cultural references, Cisneros illustrates the protagonist's conflict, emphasizing moments of pride and alienation that arise from her dual identity.
Characterization in both texts further reinforces the theme of identity. In Okita’s poem, the narrator serves as a representative of a broader community impacted by Executive Order 9066. The character's reflections on their life before and during internment encapsulate a shared sense of loss, but also resilience. This complexity adds depth to their identity, showing how it is shaped by external forces yet retains an essence that is intrinsically personal. Conversely, in "Mericans," the protagonist’s characterization is more focused on the internalized conflict of being caught between two worlds. Cisneros develops her character through moments of vulnerability and strength, revealing how societal expectations and cultural heritage shape her identity. The interactions with family and the world around her underline the tension between embracing her roots and assimilating into American culture.
The tone in both works serves as a crucial element in the authors' exploration of identity. Okita’s tone is tinged with sorrow and resignation, effectively conveying the weight of cultural loss and the struggle for recognition. This tone promotes empathy from the reader, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative. On the other hand, Cisneros employs a tone that oscillates between pride and frustration, reflecting the protagonist’s journey toward self-acceptance. The dynamic tone engages the reader to consider the multifaceted nature of identity, revealing how cultural influences can create both dissonance and harmony within one’s self-concept.
In conclusion, both "Response to Executive Order 9066" and "Mericans" adeptly explore the theme of identity through imagery, characterization, and tone. While Okita’s poem poignantly addresses the trauma of displacement and the search for self in a time of crisis, Cisneros highlights the multifaceted nature of bicultural identity through a narrative lens rich with dialogue and cultural elements. Each author offers a unique perspective on how societal forces shape individual identity, while simultaneously underscoring the resilience of those caught within the interplay of culture and self. Through their distinct literary techniques, they invite readers to reflect on the ongoing complexities of identity in an ever-evolving social landscape.
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