Using what you have learned from the interview and Dreaming in Cuban, explain the effect of the novel’s multi-narrative structure.

The multi-narrative structure of Dreaming in Cuban has a profound effect on the novel, both in terms of its storytelling and the themes it explores. By using multiple narrators, Cristina García creates a rich, layered perspective on the Cuban experience, particularly the complex lives of Cuban exiles and those who remain on the island.
All of the ideas below could be included in a strong answer. Which of these ideas did you include in your answer? Check all that apply.

The structure illustrates how to embrace multiple cultural identities.

The structure illustrates that there is not a single Cuban identity.

The structure illustrates how the Cuban Revolution has affected many generations.

The structure illustrates that people do not need to choose between cultures.

1 answer

In my answer, I included the following ideas:

  1. The structure illustrates that there is not a single Cuban identity. The multi-narrative approach highlights the diverse experiences and perspectives of different characters, showing that Cuban identity is not monolithic but rather multifaceted.

  2. The structure illustrates how the Cuban Revolution has affected many generations. Through the voices of multiple narrators, the novel captures the impact of the Cuban Revolution on various family members over time, reflecting on its lasting effects on both those who left and those who stayed.

  3. The structure illustrates that people do not need to choose between cultures. The interplay of different narratives allows for the coexistence of multiple cultural identities, demonstrating that the characters navigate their identities without the need to abandon one for the other.

I did not specifically include the idea that the structure illustrates how to embrace multiple cultural identities, although this concept is closely related to the idea of not having to choose between cultures. Would you like me to expand on any of these points?