The Writing Craft: Theme

While reading The House on Mango Street, we have noticed a major theme developed throughout the story. Maturity was one of many themes that caught our attention. It shows Esperanza's progress from childhood to adulthood.

The concept of being mature was expressed throughout the book, especially in the story, "The Family of Little Feet." Esperanza, Rachel, and Lucy received a pair of what seemed to be their very first pair of high heels. They were so excited when they got the shoes. When they placed them on their feet, instantly they felt older and more mature. Men were already glancing at them. "Your mother know you wear shoes like that?" Mr. Benny stated to them. The girls started to walk in them and they realized that they looked amazing in them. "Today we are Cinderella because our feet fit exactly." At that moment, the girls left the childhood state, and entered adulthood. Eventually, they took off the heels and hid them becasue they disliked the attention. That showed them all that they don't need shoes to define who they are.



Esperanza thought about what womanhood will bring, and what it would be like. But, she didn't truly understand that womanhood has it's responsibilities and problems. Esperanza always looks for role models who can help become more adult like, like Marin. Esperanza meets Marin and she immediately starts to like her. Not because of her personality, but because she does many adult things, like smoking. Marin also enjoys hanging around the boys and impressing them with her body. "What matters, Marin says is for the boys to see us and for us to see them." Esperanza wants boys to look at her and wants a boyfriend who can love her, just like Marin.

Another theme in The House on Mango Street is the concept of home. Esperanza desperately wants that home where she can feel safe and secure, but she never felt that in her life. Throughout the book, Esperanza looks elsewhere for  the love and security. In the beginning of the book, Esperanza wants a new house, one that isn't old and broken down. But, as the book goes on Esperanza soon realizes that the house is part of her and she learns that she should be herself no matter the circumstances.

-Chelsea and Sidney