identify one central idea or lesson that is expressed to readers throughout the story . state the central idea and prove that it is true by referring to specific characters,conflicts,scenes,from the story
This is a thematic question. There are a few themes you might consider. The struggle for self-identity is a strong one. The story is really about Esperanza coming-of-age in a patriarchal culturally sensitive society. She struggles to define herself as a girl, a young woman, and an artist. Esperanza, as a young girl, wanted to change her name to define herself differently than her family. As she matures into an adult she defines herself sexually so she will seem beautiful and cruel so men will like her but not hurt her. As a writer, she tries to define herself as an individual that is separate from cultural, family, and sexual conformity.
