Sandra Cisneros' "The House on Mango Street"

Essay, Pages 2 (450 words)

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In the short story "The House on Mango Street," Sandra Cisneros delves into her childhood memories, recounting the struggles her family faced with poor living conditions on their journey to owning their own house. The narrative highlights Cisneros' personal turmoil as she grapples with the disparity between her idealized dream home and the reality of the house they finally acquire. This dissonance propels her towards a relentless pursuit of her dream, fueled by the stark contrast between her aspirations and her current circumstances.

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Throughout the story, Cisneros vividly articulates the characteristics of her dream house, emphasizing not only the desire for a place to call her own but also a space that embodies pride and fulfillment. She envisions a home that stands out, one with real interior stairs reminiscent of those seen on television, surrounded by lush greenery and devoid of confining fences. While these details may seem trivial to some, for Cisneros, they represent the essence of her deepest aspirations.

However, the harsh reality of her family's living situation serves as a stark reminder that her dream may remain unattainable in her current circumstances. The stark contrast between her idealized home and the cramped, deteriorating dwelling she inhabits breeds a sense of shame and discontent within her, pushing her towards a relentless pursuit of her dream. The disparity between her dream and reality serves as a catalyst for her unwavering determination to achieve her goals.

Cisneros' experience of instability and shame surrounding her living conditions during her formative years serves as a driving force behind her unwavering commitment to realizing her dream.

The constant upheaval and sense of inadequacy instilled in her a resolute desire for a better future, propelling her towards a singular goal of attaining a "real house" that embodies her aspirations and reflects her true self.

It is a common phenomenon for childhood experiences to shape our dreams and aspirations, with moments of discomfort and shame serving as powerful motivators for future success. The collision between our idealized visions and the harsh realities of life often ignites a fire within us, compelling us to strive towards a better future and actualize our deepest desires.

Expanding on Cisneros' narrative, it is evident that the pursuit of one's dreams is often fueled by a deep-seated desire to transcend the limitations imposed by one's circumstances. The juxtaposition of idealized fantasies and stark realities serves as a powerful impetus for personal growth and transformation, propelling individuals towards a future defined by their aspirations rather than their current circumstances.

Works Cited:

Cisneros, Sandra. "The House on Mango Street". 40 Short Stories. Ed. Beverly Lawn. New York: Bedford, 2001