Summary Of Fiesta 1980

Junot Diaz is a Dominican American writer best known for bringing to life the experiences of the latino immigrant (Kevane). According to New York Times critic Michiko Kakutani, he has proven himself to be, “one of contemporary fiction’s most distinctive and irresistible new voices.” In his short story, “Fiesta 1980”, we follow Yunior, as he recounts a story of his dysfunctional family as they attend a party. His father plays a significant role and is at the root of their problems. The author deals with the theme of machismo, revealing how men are often influenced to follow masculine roles. Machismo can be defined as, “an attitude, quality, or way of behaving that agrees with traditional ideas about men being very strong and aggressive” (Machismo).

For example, in a scene where the family is preparing to leave the house, the father begins to argue with Yunior. His mannerisms reveal his dominant role in the family and Yunior’s instinct to do as told. As his father confronts him, Yunior says, “Papi was old-fashioned; he expected your undivided attention when you were getting your ass whipped (Diaz 2). This shows that his father has implemented into his mind the idea that avoiding eye contact is a sign of weakness. Being vulnerable is not “manly” behavior and therefore not acceptable. Then when his dad pulls him by the ear Yunior cries, but more out of, “reflex than pain” (Diaz 2). This not only illustrates violent behavior that is often associated with machismo, but it teaches them that this behavior is tolerable. As they grow older the pressure to become like the men around them

In a scene where the uncle offers Yunior a drink, his mother interferes by saying he is too young. Then the uncle responds by saying, “Young? Back in Santo Domingo, he’d be getting laid by now” (Diaz 4). Rafa tells Yunior that, “It’s the only pussy you’ll ever get.” Yunior responds with his own remark saying, “Not counting your girlfriend of course” (Diaz 4). This behavior suggests that the more women you sleep with the more masculine you become. The uncle encourages this behavior despite how young of age Yunior and Rafa are. They start to think it's acceptable to talk this way simply because their men. For example, the father believes it’s appropriate for him to have a mistress. The entire family is aware of his infidelity, but they choose to remain quiet because it has been socially accepted. He not only believes he can cheat on her, but he can string her along to “serve him” and “react violently” when things don't go his way