Efrén Divided Literary Elements

Fiction

It is primarily set in the city of Los Angeles, California, specifically in a Latino community.

The story is narrated in third-person from the perspective of the protagonist, Efrén Nava.

The tone is heartfelt and hopeful. The mood is sad, anxious, and frustrated.

The protagonist is Efrén Nava. The antagonist is the systemic issues, particularly the immigration policies.

The major conflict is the deportation of Efrén's mother and the subsequent challenges faced by Efrén and his family. This conflict arises when Efrén's mother is detained and forcibly removed from the United States due to immigration policies. Efrén, as the oldest son, is suddenly thrust into the role of caretaker for his younger siblings. He must navigate the complexities of managing the household while attending school.

The climax occurs when Lalo rescues Efrén in Tijuana.

Early in the story, Efrén's teacher assigns the class a project on immigration. This foreshadows the personal connection he will develop with the issue when his own family faces the same situation.

"Efrén thought, it won't make a difference."

This understatement occurs when Efrén reflects on the consequence of receiving detention after school for his second infraction.

The narrative alludes to the Museum of Tolerance. The Museum of Tolerance is a museum located in Los Angeles known for its focus on promoting understanding and tolerance through exhibits and educational programs.

"ICE setting up checkpoints…ICE helicopters scaring people out of their homes." This imagery depicts the fear and tension caused by the presence of immigration enforcement authorities.

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Efrén's family is divided mirroring the experiences of other families in the neighborhood who also face separation due to immigration policies.

"Papers" is used as a synecdoche to represent travel and immigration documents.

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