Social And Political Issues In Hunger Of Memory By Richard Rodriguez

"Hunger of Memory" by Richard Rodriguez is a controversial publication that is likely to bring about an intense debate especially among US Latinos. Rodriguez exposes the vital social and political issues with significant reference to his life through this esthetically exquisite book. The experiences relate to an event in the past when he was compelled to change the language he speaks from Spanish to English when he commenced his schooling life. It also exposes how he clashed with affirmative action agendas. The book is more of an autobiography that narrates Richard Rodriguez's upcoming in America. He is troubled comprehending what it means to be an American of Mexican origin. In addition, he also does not understand what it entails being a

He lucidly remembers that he witnessed this discrimination not only from the white population but also from close family members. For instance, he recalls a time when his mother advised him against staying away from the sun. He also vividly remembers his aunts' fearful attitudes of kids being born with dark skin. Rodriguez recognizes the fact that his family members reactions were significantly influenced by the social upheavals that dark-skinned people endured due to their racial state. At some point, he even goes as low as to try to shave off his brownness (Paravisini-Gebert 82). Eventually, his encounter with the "los pobres" offers him a moment of enlightenment to appreciate that his skin color is not the issue. He worked alongside people with varying cultural, social, and racial backgrounds. At some point, when some Spanish-speaking Mexican manual workers were brought along to join them in their work, he was not able to connect with them even though he tried. He came to the realization and appreciation of the fact that, no matter how dark his skin was his academic achievements wiped out the color. Evidently, as a public figure he believes he is in a position where he can defend himself and his rights efficiently. As a result, he is finally accepted his dark skin. The realization leads to the second theme in the autobiography that is affirmative