Essay Questions

How is the couples’ relationship in Under the Jaguar Sun?

The couples’ relationship is rocky in Under the Jaguar Sun. They have come to Mexico to work on their relationship. They hope that the locale will spice up their relationship. The spicy food is a metaphor for the spice that they need in their intimacy.

Why is the couple obsessed with cannibalism?

Cannibalism is seen as exciting. To think of doing the forbidden act of eating human flesh causes a rush to Olivia that makes her husband wish that she could devour his flesh. Through the thought of the act of cannibalism, the couple is able to ignite their excitement in one another.

How does food relate to their relationship?

Food is a symbol of the couples’ relationship. Olivia finds the Mexican food spicy, which is a new experience from her bland relationship with her husband. She wishes for him to be exciting and wants the spice back in their relationship. Seeing the excitement that this new culture’s food brings to his wife, makes the husband jealous of the food. He wants to be the one that she enjoys and by witnessing her relationship with the Mexican food, he understands what his wife needs and how to fix their relationship.