House of Houses: A Multigenerational Mexican-American Family Saga
The Adobe Casa: A Place of Memory and Imagination
In Pat Mora’s “House of Houses,” the adobe casa built along the Rio Grande between El Paso and Santa Fe becomes a symbol of the interconnectedness of past and present. It’s a place where the skeletons of the Mora family’s history are not hidden but celebrated, sharing recipes, proverbs, and gossip around the kitchen table.
Through magic realism, Mora weaves together the stories of her family members, blurring the lines between memory and imagination. The house witnesses the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people living ordinary lives, embodying the unique and universal qualities of family.
Aunt Lobo: A Life of Service and Strength
Mora’s Aunt Lobo, a saleslady at the Popular Dry Goods Company for nearly five decades, exemplifies the resilience and determination of the Mexican-American community. She imparts her wisdom to her young nieces, encouraging them to embrace the future while honoring their heritage.
Aunt Chole: A Spinster’s Secret Love
Aunt Chole, a spinster, shares the poignant tale of her unrequited love for a radio announcer. Despite her blindness, she remains hopeful, her love a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.
Mamá Cleta: A Wise Woman Connected to Nature
Mamá Cleta, the grandmother, possesses a deep connection to nature. She listens to the secret life of insects and plants, finding solace and inspiration in the natural world. Her wisdom is reflected in her writings, which emphasize the value of family and the simple joys of life.
A Family’s Journey Through Dementia
Mora’s father’s battle with dementia is a heart-wrenching but ultimately uplifting story of love and support. The family rallies around him, providing care and comfort during his final days. His words at the end of their daily visits, “Family is the most important thing,” serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds that unite them.
The Magic of Pat Mora’s Writing
Mora’s writing is as enchanting as the family stories she tells. Her vivid descriptions of the natural world and the inner lives of her characters transport the reader to another time and place. She evokes the sounds, scents, and textures of her family’s lives, creating a rich tapestry of experience.
Mora’s use of magic realism enhances the emotional impact of her stories, blurring the boundaries between the real and the imagined. It allows her to explore the complexities of family relationships and the enduring legacy of the past.
House of Houses: A Celebration of Family and Heritage
“House of Houses” is a multilayered and deeply moving chronicle of a Mexican-American family. Through the stories of her aunts, grandmother, and father, Mora illuminates the universal themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of family.
The adobe casa becomes a symbol of the family’s resilience, a place where memories are preserved and the spirit of the past lives on. Mora’s writing is a tribute to her family and to the rich cultural heritage of the Mexican-American community.