Immigration and culture
In Return to Sender, one of the most prominent themes is immigration and its impact on cultural identity. Alvarez presents characters which are illegal immigrants from Mexico and portrays their struggles to fit into an entirely new culture. Tyler's family, Vermont dairy farmers, hire Mari's family as undocumented workers. This dynamic offers insights into the conflicts, stereotypes, and mutual understandings arising from cultural differences. Through the struggles of Mari and her family, Alvarez paints a vivid picture of the challenges immigrants face, such as language barriers, unfamiliar customs, and the constant fear of deportation. The theme further explores how these experiences shape one's identity and the sense of belonging or alienation in a foreign land.
Family and loyalty
The theme of family and loyalty is intricately woven into the narrative of Return to Sender. Tyler and Mari display immense loyalty towards their families, though their circumstances are vastly different. Tyler takes on responsibilities beyond his years to help his family's struggling farm after his father's accident. On the other hand, Mari is torn between her desire to stay in America for a better life and her longing to reunite with her mother in Mexico. These complex familial relationships highlight the lengths individuals go to for the sake of family loyalty and the challenging decisions it sometimes involves. Alvarez explores how these bonds of loyalty and love can test one's character and values.
Empathy
The theme of empathy is central to Return to Sender. Through Tyler and Mari's evolving relationship, Alvarez emphasizes empathy's power in bridging cultural and societal gaps. Despite their differences and initial misconceptions, Tyler and Mari develop a deep understanding of each other's circumstances, cultivating an empathy that transcends their disparate backgrounds. This mutual understanding also prompts a broader change in their families and communities. This theme underscores that empathy and understanding are crucial to breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and fostering connections in diverse societies.
