In The Tortilla Curtain, both couples display false consciousness in the ways they conceive of "the American way." What do Delaney and Kyra believe about "the American way of life?" What beliefs do Candido and America initially hold about 'the American way of life,' despite growing evidence to the contrary?
Kyra lives the American way of life; she's added to her family's wealth by selling real estate and she embodies the 'life' other women dream of. I think I'd argue that, but that's what the author wants us to believe.
Delaney open the novel as a character who is tolerant and supportive of all people. During the course of the story he begins to resent illegal immigrants and becomes a racist; the liberal moves to the far right because of his experiences. This in turn shows us that he believed the American dream belongs only to Americans. This is an important subject in our world todat, and presents perspectives for the reader to muse over.
The Tortilla Curtain
