[Solution]Write a literary essay that examines the themes of EACH OF US A DESERT by Mark Oshiro

The short story “Each of Us a Desert” by Mark Oshiro explores the themes of immigration, identity, and belonging. These themes are poignantly explored through the eyes of two main characters; Mona who is an undocumented immigrant living in the United States, and her college roommate Jamie. Through their interactions, readers gain insight into the struggles faced by immigrants living in a foreign land as well as how even within one’s own country there can be cultural divides which prevent full integration.

Write a literary essay that examines the themes of EACH OF US A DESERT by Mark Oshiro

The theme of immigration is particularly highlighted in “Each of Us a Desert” as Mona recounts her journey from Mexico to the US with her family when she was just five year old. This experience has had a lasting effect on Mona who often finds herself feeling isolated and unable to connect with those around her due to language barriers and fear that if she does become close to someone they might discover that she doesn’t have proper documentation which could lead to deportation or other penalties. As readers learn more about Mona’s backstory they come to understand why she keeps people at arm’s length even though deep down inside she wants connection like anyone else.

Identity is another key theme in this story especially for Mona whose identity is constantly shifting depending on the context she is in such as being Mexican among American friends or feeling American when surrounded by Mexicans. When talking about this sense of duality with Jamie, Mona explains that it feels like having two faces: one belonging strictly to each side yet neither being able to fully claim them both without straddling between worlds and never quite fitting into either one completely or truly embracing both facets of themselves together at once. This idea serves as a metaphor for many immigrants who do not feel like they can wholly identify with either their home country nor their current residence leaving them feeling alienated no matter where they go.

Another important theme explored throughout “Each Of Us A Desert”is Belonging; something that all humans strive for regardless of background or nationality yet so often denied because we view those different than ourselves differently based off pre-conceived notions or simply because we don’t take the time get past our differences and allow ourselves form genuine connections leading us towards understanding instead hostility towards what make us different from one another whether its race religion gender sexual orientation etcetera .This struggle is highlighted through Jamie’s friendship with Mona which initially starts off rocky due primarilyJamie hesitating out of fear but ultimately grows over time into genuine care.. In order for any sort meaningful relationship only began by bracing aside fears allowing yourself be vulnerable enough let others see you , your values core beliefs person really are .Acceptance open hearts sometimes hard find but when done correctly can result some most meaningful relationships life .

In conclusion , “ Each Of Us A Desert” offers powerful exploration beyond surface level issues most Americans face today related immigration ,identity & belonging . By focusing narrative around two primary characters namelyMona & Jamie author allows readers gain deeper understanding complex realities facing individuals everyday basis coming from variety backgrounds seeking acceptance place call home . Although it easy forget amidst chaos politics media environment overall message remains same ; acceptance key forming strong bonds endures regardless circumstances & disagreements may arise along way – ultimately we all human beings deserve opportunity live joyful lives free burden judgement