Soledad

• Published in: The Hispanic outlook in higher education 2002-10, Vol.13 (2), p.56
• Main Author: O'Neal, Gwenelle S
• Format: Magazinearticle
• Language: English
• Subjects: Behavior Theories; Coping; Cultural Context; Culture; Family (Sociological Unit); Gender Issues; Hispanic American Culture; Hispanic Americans; Hispanic people; Interpersonal Relationship; Late Adolescents; Literature; Minority & ethnic groups; Mothers; Parent Role; Physical Development; Social Environment
• ISSN: 1054-2337; 2471-6448

Not only does this novel express the impact of the vicissitudes of life upon a person's individual development; it also demonstrates the family's capacity through love, connections, and spiritual influences to fight the realities that have resulted in her mother's emotional coma. Through the tension of emotional crisis and the coping strategies that culture, family integrity, and mysticism create, Gorda, [Soledad]'s maternal aunt, leads the family response to help her sister overcome the emotional crisis. From the cleansing of Olivia's home to orchestrating her return to the Dominican Republic and enlisting family there to help uncover and resolve the tensions, Gorda assumes a leadership role. She uses her own personal strengths, her awareness of ghosts, family love, and willingness to work against the forces that triggered Olivia's withdrawal. Gorda also struggles with how the ghosts affect her, as she works to identify and understand the dynamics of her own life. Simultaneously, she watches her daughter Flaca's growth. She is vigilant in monitoring Flaca's physical development, the peer influences, and her participation in the activities of the street.