Language

The language of “With His Own Two Hands” by Albert Garcia is simple and easy to follow. The choice of words reflects the ethnic background of the characters, with several Mexican words and sentences being introduced in the text such as “menudo, pozole, and fresh tortillas” (ll. 63-61). This is probably to emphasize the theme of cultural differences which is a main theme of the story.

Most of the story is conveyed in the narrative mode and through indirect speech. A few exceptions are represented by several lines in which the narrator quotes his grandfather and grandmother directly: “ ‘No, viejo,’ she would say…” (ll. 39-40)

Imagery

The language of the story is also highly descriptive, so imagery abounds. There is imagery related to the setting and the way the characters look and act. Here is just one such example describing the grandfather vividly: "They looked so much like the Mexicans I was trying hard not to be, my grandpa with his straw hat and overalls and the red handkerchief in his...