“It is a beautiful day / even in this barrio, and today / I am almost not unhappy. / I am a different María.”

In this excerpt, María introduces several key parts of her identity in this opening poem. She is someone who navigates the tension between people, places, and feelings. The juxtapositions of positives and negatives in this poem illustrate the ways in which she finds a balance between different aspects of her life. Additionally, this quote establishes her as someone with different selves.

“I am ready to surface, una flor en la primavera.”

The motivation and drive that María demonstrates throughout the novel are reflected in this opening statement, as is her ability to speak two languages: “una flor en la primavera” is Spanish for “a flower in the spring.” This is also an important characterization of her as an adolescent on the verge of forming and solidifying her identity. The image of a flower blossoming through concrete is echoed at later moments in the novel and illustrates the challenges that her environment presents to her attempts to grow and develop.

“He has always felt out of step with the island Puerto Ricans, although he has been here so many years and married an island girl, an island girl who wants to stay on the Island.”

Papi’s disconnection from the island of Puerto Rico is the cause of much of María’s family conflict. His separation from Mami is simultaneously difficult for María and also creates the opportunity for her to get a better education in the United States.