“As the yam falls into the soil discomposing, it seeks simply its branches to grow unceasingly (蕃薯毋驚落土爛, 只望枝葉代代湠). The vegetable yam has long represented Taiwan, the beautiful island of Formosa, not merely it resembles closely the shape of the island itself, but also characterizes the spirit of the people who have been dwelling here for more than four hundred years and been proud of endurance, perseverance, and industriousness. In Suarez’ El Hoyo, we see clearly how he and other inhabitants of El Hoyo identify with their town; they came to live in El Hoyo for various reasons, most of which were particularly for the sake of seeking a refuge or an asylum. Whatever the reason was, the people have became a big family once they settled down in El Hoyo e.g., a gentleman coming to Teofila Malacara’s aid, protecting a girl’s work rights, and feeding the Mexican Army

In the concluding paragraph, Suarez compares the dish capirotada to El Hoyo. “While being divided frm within and form without, like the capirotada, they remain chicanos.” How do you define your hometown or neighborhood? You may do some research on your community such as interviewing your parents, grandparents or some local leaders. Think of a metaphor that would for your community.