Literary Devices in 'My Name'

Is '[My name] is like the number nine' a simile or metaphor?

Is '[My name is] a muddy color' a simile or metaphor?

What does Esperanza mean when she says that her grandmother 'looked out the window her whole life, the way so many women sit their sadness on an elbow'?

Who is Esperanza named for?

Why did Esperanza want to change her name?

What name does Esperanza choose for herself?

Name Significance

Esperanza's name is compared to the number nine, illustrating its uniqueness and importance; this is a simile.
The description of her name as "a muddy color" suggests a lack of clarity and heaviness, indicating a metaphor for her experience and feelings associated with her identity.

Grandmother's Life Perspective

Esperanza reflects on her grandmother's life, stating she "looked out the window her whole life," which symbolizes a longing for freedom and escape from confinement; many women endure similar feelings of sadness.

Heritage and Identity

Esperanza is named after her grandmother, emphasizing the connection and continuity of women's experiences across generations.
Her desire to change her name stems from the frequent mispronunciation by others, highlighting the challenges of cultural identity and acceptance.

Chosen Identity

She ultimately chooses the name "Ze Ze the X" for herself, signifying a desire to reinvent her identity and assert her uniqueness in a world that often misunderstands her.

Test your understanding of literary devices used in Sandra Cisneros' short story 'My Name'. This quiz focuses on identifying similes and metaphors along with interpreting deeper meanings in the text. Perfect for students looking to enhance their literary analysis skills.