Marxism In Zoot Suit

“In union there is strength...If the hens can overcome the fox, what about human beings?” (Allende 154). According to a survey of 42,000 elected officials, “white men are 31 percent of the U.S. population, but hold 65 percent of all elected offices” (Henderson). Many claim that America stands for liberty and individual freedom, yet the Americans that say this are the same ones who receive the benefits of privilege. Ask Carlos Bulosan, Isabel Allende, or Luis Valdez, and another story, drastically different from the ones perpetuated by those in positions of power, is heard. Marxism offers a controversial and harsh look at the realities of society. In a sink or swim nation where some people are given floatation devices and others have anchors tied to their legs, the two class system of the proletariat and bourgeoisie seems pervasive and all too relevant. While reading books written by those who were forced into the proletariat workforce lifestyle, common threads develop. The sense of hopelessness, self loathing, and

He states, “Qué mamada, Hank [Henry]. That’s exactly what the play needs right now. Two more Mexicans killing each other… That’s exactly what they paid to see. Think about it” (Valdez 46). Pachuco is trying to show Henry that it is acceptable to embrace the feeling of vulnerability. By creating the illusion of being a strong gang leader, instead of a man who likes to dress well and hang out with his friends, he is fulfilling his own stereotype. Henry cherishes love and softness, but he thinks that he has to toughen up to seem strong for his friends. When he puts on this facade of strength, he has effectively given up his identity to those who attempt to control it, which infuriates Henry because he knows he has trapped himself but he sees no other way to freely live his