Cultural Identity Formation in Okita and Cisneros Literature

Introduction

The concept of American identity has long been a subject of exploration and debate among writers and thinkers. Two notable authors who delve into this theme are Dwight Okita and Sandra Cisneros. In Dwight Okita's poem "Response to Executive Order 9066" and Sandra Cisneros's short story "Mericans," both authors explore what it means to be American, challenging the notion that identity is solely determined by one's cultural heritage or physical appearance. Instead, they suggest that American identity is shaped by personal experiences and the sense of belonging one feels within a culture.

In this essay, I will examine how Okita and Cisneros address American identity through their respective works, highlighting their thematic similarities and differences while providing a deeper understanding of their approaches.

Exploration of Identity

In Sandra Cisneros's "Mericans," the narrative centers on a young girl navigating the intersection of her Mexican heritage and American upbringing. The story is set in a church in Mexico, where the protagonist grapples with her dual identity. The "awful grandmother" in the story represents the traditional side of her heritage, knitting "the names of the dead" into a prayer, which symbolizes a deep-rooted connection to her cultural past. The protagonist's internal conflict is evident when she reflects on her experiences in the "barbaric country" of America, underscoring her struggle to reconcile her cultural duality. Cisneros effectively uses the grandmother's character to highlight the generational tensions and differing perceptions of American culture within immigrant families.

Similarly, Dwight Okita's poem "Response to Executive Order 9066" explores identity through the lens of a young Japanese-American girl during World War II. The poem is a poignant reflection on the impact of Executive Order 9066, which authorized the internment of Japanese-Americans. Okita uses the protagonist's direct thoughts and interactions with her peers to convey her sense of identity. The young girl asserts her Americanness by offering a packet of tomato seeds to her friend, a symbol of growth and shared experiences that transcend ethnic boundaries. Through this gesture, Okita emphasizes that American identity is not defined by ancestry but by the connections and experiences one forms.

Literary Devices and Perspectives

Both Cisneros and Okita employ various literary devices to convey their themes effectively. In "Mericans," Cisneros uses vivid imagery and cultural symbols to depict the protagonist's internal struggle. The church, a place of tradition and ritual, serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's cultural heritage, while the bustling streets outside represent the vibrant, chaotic energy of American life. Cisneros's narrative style allows readers to experience the protagonist's ambivalence and the complexity of her identity.

Okita, on the other hand, utilizes a more direct and introspective approach in "Response to Executive Order 9066." The poem's format, structured as a letter, provides an intimate glimpse into the protagonist's thoughts and emotions. Okita's use of simple, yet powerful language captures the innocence and confusion of a young girl grappling with societal prejudice. The poem's conversational tone invites readers to empathize with the protagonist's experience, reinforcing the idea that American identity is a personal and evolving concept.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Dwight Okita and Sandra Cisneros offer insightful perspectives on American identity through their respective works. While Cisneros's "Mericans" highlights the cultural tensions and duality faced by immigrants, Okita's "Response to Executive Order 9066" underscores the impact of societal attitudes on individual identity. Despite their different narrative styles and contexts, both authors convey the message that American identity is not solely determined by one's heritage or physical appearance. Instead, it is shaped by personal experiences, relationships, and the sense of belonging one feels within a culture. Through their poignant storytelling and vivid imagery, Okita and Cisneros invite readers to reconsider the multifaceted nature of American identity, encouraging a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of what it means to be American.

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