Select a passage from Bodega Dreams that you found important, interesting, essential, or confusing. Type the passage with page # and analyze its significance.
"Bodega would go down as a representation of all its ugliness in Spanish Harlem, and also all the good it was capable of being." (14)
I do not understand why Bodega is said to be a representation of ugliness. Up into halfway through the book, Bodega seems to be doing a good deed, helping out new immigrants by providing jobs and cleaning up tenement buildings. He may be "ugly" because of the drugs he sells to achieve this, but perhaps shows the capability of spanish harlem with his acts of good deeds and hope.
"He had always been Sapo but that year, after biting Blessington, he started turning into someone who wasn't afraid to die...He had reached the point in existence where he wasn't afraid to hurt anyone who threatened his only source of meaning, his love for himself." (92)
I thought this was interesting because it reflects on the killing of Salazar, the Spanish reporter. It seems obvious that Sapo did bite Salazar, so I wonder what will happen to him next- especially because he is linked to Bodega. Since Sapo has an excessive amount of pride, Salazar could have done something insignificant to threaten Sapo's "only source of meaning."
"Bodega and Nazario had seen what guns could do. They knew you could not attack the Anglo like that. You had to play by his rules and, like him, steal by signing the right papers" (106).
This quote is great because its part of the last two pages of one of the chapters where Bodega's dream is finally spelled out. But this quote in particular tells why Bodega is going about achieving his dream in such an outwardly legal manner. The idea of playing by the Anglo's rules and "stealing by signing the right papers" is phrased so poetically and ingeniously and is very true. We hold the stereotype that if non-Anglos make a lot of money they must have sold drugs or used force, but if Anglos have a lot of money they got it through non-harmful means (even if those means weren't legal).I just think that Quinonez hit the nail on the head with his point both in this quote and in the overall nature of Bodega's dream. -Victoria M
"Tommorrow Spanish Harlem would run faster, fly higher, stretch out its arms farther, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings." (213)
Unlike in The Great Gatsby, the end of Bodega Dreams gives us hope that what Bodega worked so hard for will eventually happen. At the end of The Great Gatsby, a meek funeral was held for Gatsby, but in Bodega Dreams, Bodega had a funeral with everybody on the block coming to it. This last quote sums the book up, it means that there is still hope for an evolving Spanish Harlem even though its sole propreitor is dead.
"But what it means is fourteen familes that would riot for Bodega. Fourteen families that would take a bullet for Bodega." (29)
I thought this passage clearly exemplifies the image Bodega is trying to get across to Chino. His whole mission is to tend to the peole of Spanish harlem, and to care for them, give them whatever they need. And in turn, he expects complete loyalty from them. He's involved in a lot of dirty business and the more people that have his back the better. He surrounds himself with people so that when the time comes, he doesn't have to do anything.
Bodega and Nazario had seen what guns could do. They knew you could not attack the Anglo like that. You had to play by his rules and, like him, steal by signing the right papers" (106)
I think this quote is representative of the entire book really, the way that everything has to go down in back rooms and things like that, how no one can really say exactly what they mean, and also, the bit about "the anglo" starts the polarization, and i just feel like its going to become more and more pervasive.
“He paused for about a second and looked at me. For the first time I saw his eyes were a strange shade of pale brown, as if they had been dulled by some deep sadness that the years had turned into anger. (26)”
This quote was said by Chino about Bodega. It was during their first meeting and Chino’s first impression of Willie. Willie was talking about how Puerto-Rican Americans do not get any respect in America and are just put under one title, Hispanic.
I found this passage to be interesting because it opened my eyes to a possible motive of why Bodega is involved in the business he is. This passage illuminated that maybe Bodega had a hard childhood or upbringing and the drug business is a way for him to “stick it to the man”. Maybe he is involved with drugs for the sole reason that they are illegal and is almost giving America the same treatment it has given him. It is his way of beating the system and his way to feel more important in America.
This passage also shows some heart to Bodega and makes him more human. I thought that maybe he helps people with his money so no one will have to go through what he did. He is trying to better people’s lives so the do not have to feel the “deep sadness” that was, or still is, in his life. (Maybe his unhappiness and anger does not solely surround around Vera.....hmmmm....)
This passage also increases the amount of mystery surrounding Bodega. When reading, I like suspense so this passage made me want to continue reading even more. :P
"As I was heading out, I heard Nene singing, "Mama, I just killed a man." His voice was strange, tense and tight. I turned toward him, saw the image on the television, saw it had nothing to do with the song. What was on was a shoe commercial." (170)
I found this passage to be really interesting because the narrator indiscreetly informs the reader that Nene was the one who killed Salazar. It shows that Bodega was so powerful even to get his own cousin, who was "slow," to kill a man. Nene seemed so innocent to me up until this point in the novel because he was faithful to Bodega as his guard and he was friendly with Chino.
"'That's right. But in the beginning, you have to do certain things. What do you think, it comes from nothing? America is a great nation, I have no doubts about that, but in its early days it had to take some shady steps to get there. Manifest Destiny, that was just another word for genocide.'" (160)
This quote (Nazario to Chino) is really interesting because it serves a number of purposes. It provides characterization for Nazario portraying his good education but also his unique look on things. This quote shows that Nazario truly believes that it doesn't matter how greatness is achieved, and often force is both necessary and appropriate. Of course this is an odd point-of-view for a man whose business is diplomacy and using words to fix things.
This quote also caught my attention because of its truth. There are a lot of these type of quotes by Quinonez; they're poetic but blunt, and they always manage to grab attention, like the first quote I chose.
Finally, this quote foreshadows the end of the book, however vaguely. It shows that Nazario is not afraid to use whatever means necessary to achieve his goals, goals that NAZARIO, not Bodega, is always talking to Chino about.
"There was something honest in his dishonesty. Unlike Blanca, I believed it was dishonest people that brought about change. It was paradoxical people like Bodega who started revolutions" (38).
This quote from Chino is an interesting assessment of humans. One would expect that good, honest people are the only ones who have positive effects on the world. Chino, however, believes that a man like Bodega, who commits crimes in order to help out both himself and the community,are the people who truly help society.
"So you have a nice car and make good money, but Bodega, Bodega is the Man. Bodega has made a name for himself. You know about names, Sapo. When you get one it's only a matter of time before you have to prove who you are. And Bodega has the biggest name in the neighborhood." (41)
In this quote, Chino is talking to Sapo about Bodega and the significance of names. I feel that the topic of 'names' seems to be important to the novel because it dictates who you are and what you stand for in El Barrio. Even though Sapo has a good car and makes good money, Bodega still has the biggest name and that seems to be very important in their society. It doesn't matter how rich you are, the name is what matters. On page 4 it also talks about nicknames and how if you don't have one then you are a 'useless, meaningless thing'. It's just intersting how the author decided to nickname all the characters and represent them in different ways. I wonder what other significanes the 'names' might have to the rest of the novel...
I think the quote about names that Maryam shared is an interesting one, and it also illuminates a good parallel with The Great Gatsby. Names are just as important in that novel- think about James Gatz vs. Jay Gatsby. (Also, a name like Buchannan vs. a name like Gatz.)
"She said she loved me. She said that she didn't care if I didn't have any money. The problem was, she said, I didn't have any vision of how to get it." (79)
This is the scene where Bodega is telling Chino about Vera, and his past with her. I found this statement to be kind of ironic, because first Vera told Bodega it didnt matter that he was poor, then she completely contradicts herself saying that he should plan on getting some. But i guess this is kind of where Bodega motivation is coming from; he really wants to show Vera that he's grown up.
"as the camerapanned an empty pier, still wet from the afternoon rain, the spanish newscaster reported that there was evidence of a struggle. In addition to the gunshot wound, salazar had suffered a serious bit to the shoulder. thats when i know who had killed him." (82)
After reading this i was stunned and in shock. I knew Sapo didnt like when people messed with him but he always seemed deep down inside nice and knew what he wanted in life, he had also been a good friend to chino. I was expecting for Sapo to go and kill someone but it did put a good twist on the story, i was excited to see what would happen next.
"It was Nazario who, by blending his education with politeness, had made himself be looked upon with love, respect, and a little fear throughout the neighborhood. His smile could be magically disarming but his head was crowded with practicality and genius. Unlike Bodega's eyes, which were pools of ghosts and sadness, Nazario's were black holes, nothing could escape them, not even light, as if he could read your mind." (98)
-This passage can be seen as evidence of the influential power of formalized education and knowledge in the Spanish Harlem society. It describes how Nazario's education and behavior allowed him to have so much power, without doing much "dirty work." Through intimidation and wits he he is able to manipulate his surroundings. Also, I think the descriptions of Willy and Nazario's eyes reveal elements of their relationship. The fact that Willy's are pools of sadness, and Nazario's are "black holes" shows how Willy is dependent on Nazario. Nazario provides the cold, hard methods to get things done that Willy cannot carry out on his own. -Carolyn
"Ebarito shook my hand, then Bodega's. I gave Ebarito my name and introduced Bodega as Jose Tapia. Ebarito said that my friend was also welcome to come by his social club. Then he complimented us on our suits, told us we looked like la aristocracia puerto-rriquena. Bodega found this funny and asked Ebarito for his name again. Bodega made a mental note of it. He was going to reward Ebarito in the near future, I could tell. We kept walking," (110).
This quote really demonstrated to me how much of a hold that Bodega held on the community. Ebarito had only seen Chino with Nazario that morning, and went out of his way when he saw him again to flatter and kiss up to Chino and his friend. It also shows what a low profile Bodega kept, since he was not ever recognizable on the street but held such power in the neighborhood. After hearing the joke Ebarito made, Bodega wished to reward this man for his wit, and Chino recognized that this was his intent. Everything turned into politics, and the people such as Ebarito realized this and took advantage of this fact.
"See, Chino, any Puerto Rican or any of my Latin brothers and sisters who are stupid enough to buy that shit... don't belong in my Great Society" (31).
Bodega claims to be trying to save the neighborhood, trying to turn it around and create a better, more respectable world. However, his willingness to sell to people in his own community is counter-intuitive. Selling drugs to any member of the society he is trying to better is polluting the air he breathes. No matter how much better he makes Spanish Harlem, how much money he pours into it, he is still promoting the stereotypes and problems that plague the area. The people he is selling to are the same ones he is "helping", which cancels out whatever progress he might be making. He can't eliminate certain people from the "Great Society" he is trying to mold, because its an all-or-nothing situation.
"'Hey, Willie,' I said as I was about to walk out the door, 'I think that you're worth all the souls in hell. Thass thousands of more souls than there are in heaven. So you're worth a lot, pana'" (193).
This quote comes when Chino leaves Bodega and Vera after Vera has shot and killed Vidal. I thought that this quote brought forth a very interesting concept. Chino says that it is the only compliment he has ever given Bodega and it seems like such a strange one to give. Chino is basically telling Bodega that he is worthy of innumerable evil souls. Basically, Bodega is worth a lot and is basically pure, like souls, but those souls are evil in some ways. It was also interesting to note how Chino addresses Willie Bodega, a man who had caused him such stress and heartache, as his pana. Clearly, Bodega has had a positive effect on Chino.
“You still watch public television, William?” She laughed and reached her hand to Bodega, who clasped it like a drowning man would a raft.” (122)
This quote takes place between Bodega and Vera when they were talking about the Hermitage art museum. I think this quote gave the reader a great visual of the scene. I loved how Quinonez compared Bodega to a person in such desperate measures. It really showed how intense this who reunion was to Bodega. This was his one chance to survive with his true love and if he missed it, another opportunity may have not floated by. I also think this quote may have given us a little glimpse at Vera teasing Bodega. It is almost as if she knew that was what he longed for. I remember when reading this, I said in my head sarcastically, “Hope that’s not foreshadowing!” Who knew that it was?! :)
See Chino, I'm talking about property. I'm talking about owning this neighborhood legally...I'm talkin' about ownin' a big chunk of the most expensive real estate in all the nine planets" (36).
This quote comes very early on in the book, to lay out the master plan and framework for the novel, perfectly called 'Bodega Dreams'. To understand the entire book, the reader needs to understand that the book is not about a series of drug dealing, market robbing Ricans, but at the heart lies a man with serious 'inspiracíon'. Bodega instantly turns from the essential drug lord he was made out to be, the antagonist almost, to becoming a God in Chino's eyes, a man that would lead himself and Spanish Harlem to greatness. Even if their world is surrounded in drugs, murder and crime, this statement reveals the tiny light that shines bright in the hearts Spanish Harlem.
"I loved Sapo. I loved Sapo because he loved himself. And I wanted to be able to do that, to rely on myself for my own happiness." (3)
I think this is a really interesting quote, because, while Sapo is indeed self sufficient, I'm not really sure that he is totally happy. While he has Chino, Sapo seems to live in realative solitude, with many aquaitences, and many people who know his name, but not many people who he could call his near and dear. I think that his toughness, and his seemingly contentedness with this kind of life style is a coverup for being miserably lonely. Still, Chino, who has the life with people he cares for like Sapo doesn't, admires Sapo for his lonliness.
“He paused for about a second and looked at me. For the first time I saw his eyes were a strange shade of pale brown, as if they had been dulled by some deep sadness that the years had turned into anger.” (26)
This quote is important because it is the first time we see the motivtation and determination that Bodega has. But more so we see that there may be more to Bodega's vision. Chino notes that the sadness has turned into anger which may be a sign of how his vision has changed from a postive thing for the community to a self-centered act that may end up harming the communtity because Bodega is too caught up in his love for Vera. Another interesting point is the parallel between Bodega and Gatsby. In the great Gatsby, Nick makes references to Gatsby's eyes like Chino is doing with Bodega.
"But I take care of the community and the communityt will take care of me." p.30 Bodega
This quote was significant because this was the belief that Bodega built his life off of. It was interesting to find out that when he died the people did not take to the street and riot like he thought they would. They were probably scared toget involved with the whole thing. He did not think about that
"Tommorow Spanish Harlem would run faster, fly higer. stretch out its arm father, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings." p. 213
This quote determined that Bodega's dream had been accomplised. Not completely, but it said that he changed the neighborhood. Bodega's dream was going to come true the sad part was that he would not be there to experience it.
"I placed fourteen families on the buildin', cheap rent, too. You know what that means, Chino?...But what that means ss fourteen families that would riot for Bodega. Fourteen families that would take a bullet for Bodega."
In this passage, as Bodega talks with Julio, he reveals the "real" reason that he is purchasing numerous tenaments in NYC. Not to provide a better life for the ever-struggling and povery stricken families of Spanish Harlem, but to create the Great Society similar to that of the Italians. It seems as though Bodega no longer desires money. He now strives image and protection, something even more valuable on the "streets." If he can not acquire this own his own, he will use as many people as it takes to get it done, even if it means the entire community.
"Ya know, Chino, at least I admit I only think about myself. But you, you play it off as if you really care about other people when in fact it's always been you, you, and fucken you." (42)
I thought this was important just to show how different Sapo and Chino really are. As hard as Chino tries to be like Sapo, he will always be a different person. Chino thinks before he acts, and although Sapo does not think it, Chino does care about people other than himself. It seems as if Sapo is the one who cares only about himself, and is always asking Chino for favors.
"It was always about Bodega. And to this day it continues to be about Bodega. Bodega had an unforgettable blend of nobility and street, as if God never made up his mind whether to have Bodega be a born leader or a hood. Bodega did something to the neighborhood, something with staying power, like that song that no one could possibly like but you, because you heard it at a time when your heart was breaking," (85).
This is such a well-worded description of Bodega. But the line that I liked the best was the last part about nobody but you could understand because you connected with it. Chino connected with Bodega in many ways and nobody else could understand because it was a personal thing. I love how Bodega is still human. He's not just this emotionless ruler. He is a good balance of different characteristics that make him such an interesting character. He can connect with those below him because he isnt just some rich man that cares only about himself. Underneath he really does only benefit himself, but he covers it up well and makes the community seem like his first priority. He's brilliant and intriguing and relaxed about severe situations.
"'I didn't ask you why the knife flew out of your hands, right? I wrote on the form that Victor fell on it. Victor wanted to tell the truth. Victor wanted to tell the doctors that his wife threw it at him.... But I convinced him not to.... So, mira, you owe me. You owe me big.'" (59)
I found this passage especially interesting because of the way Chino straight up lies to Negra. Victor had clearly told him in the taxi on the way to the hospital that he wanted Chino to write that he had fallen on the knife, yet Chino tells Negra the exact opposite. I also think it kind of shows the influence people like Sapo and Bodega are having on him. For instance, his lying would be influenced by Sapo in the manipulation he is using it for. Though Sapo does not manipulate Chino by lying to him, he still uses him a lot and I feel like this influences Chino's motivation to manipulate other people. Also, I feel like this is kind of the beginning of "everything being about Bodega", like Chino says it is early on. He is lying to his sister-in-law to get what he needs to make Bodega happy. At the beginning I didn't see Chino as the type of person that would do that and I think this might be the beginning of somewhat of a metamorphasis into a person that would do anything to make Bodega pleased.
"The things I do, they're just a means to get me what I need, and when I'm done I'm going to be respectable and send my kids to harvard, like Joe Kennedy."
I thought this was interesting coming from Bodega. Even though he's a drug dealer and handles in some shady stuff, his whole perception of life is unique. He's saying that all the things he does, are all for the future kind of. Like he has an ultimate goal for himself and he'll do some lowly things to help get it. Bodega seems in a way to be more about others and not himself, which makes this drug dealing thug, become more of a hero in light of all the things he does.
"Considering the magnitude of what blanca would be asking, if Negra or anyone Negra knew could deliver, the payback wouldn't just be a bitch but a house full of whores." 64
To be honest, a big reason for selecting this passage was because I thought it was hilarious. I love Quinonez' writing style because it is so straight up. He writes like a person would talk, telling the reader exactly what is going on without being too wordy or anything. Another reason for selecting this passage is because payback is a big part of the story so far. Not payback as in revenge, but as owing somebody something--in terms of favors. So far (im on p.140 now) everything has been about "I'll get your back if you get mine." Whether it be defending your pana on the street, or simply doing someone a favor, good deeds are not forgotten in Bodega Dreams.
“Enrique might have some money and drive a BMW but he still lives in the same roach-invested building that we do. He can’t leave because his money is only good here” (15).
This quote shows what Banca truly thinks of Sapo. She is trying to convice Julio that he is not a good guy because even though he has all of this money he still lives in the same building they do. This is an example of her being the voicve of wisdom in the novel. She is trying to give example to prove to her husband that Sapo is really not as well off as he comes across. She seems to see straight through Sapo and only wishes her husband could see the same. I think she knows though that there is only so much warning she can give which is why she sort of backs off for a little bit and could only hope for the best. This quote really emphasizes how shady Sapo truly is. It brings a reality to the fact that he supposedly has all of this money but can't get out of that roach-infested building. ~Lauren Bowker
"I didn't want to get more involved, but not knowing what was really happening might hurt me" (99).
Already, Julio has been faced with many moral dilemmas. He knows that he is getting involved with some bad people, but he recognizes that it might be the only way to provide his family with the things that they need. This story makes it easy to see how easily one could get sucked into such ugly situations. Julio is clearly not an evil or stupid man, yet he is getting himself involved with some pretty bad things. It will be interesting to see if Julio is able to draw a line and finally stop being so dependant on Bodega. Hopefully by the time Blanca gives birth he will be able to get rid of his connections to Bodega and Sapo, although that is looking doubtful.
"The next day at work, I was pricing cans. It was better than straightening shelves because I got to use the sticker gun. When little kids were shopping with their moms, I would show off by pricing an entire box of cans real quick, and they got a kick out of that." (48)
This quote could definitely just appear as random, or not very meaningful. However, when I read I saw it as much more than Chino explaining an average day at work. I saw it as Chino's innocence coming through a bit despite his tough exterior. Also, the fact that he recognizes the children's reactions... it shows that he cares about the feelings of others, especially children which is why I think he will be a great father. Like Blanca, who brings out the best in Chino, other times that bring him a simple, child like, pleasure like pricing cans portrays Chino's better side.
"Sitting there in the dark I saw some daylight. Bodega wanted something from me, so I would ask something in return. It was basic, simple street politics: you want something from me then you better have something I need." (47)
This is Chino's thought as he makes a deal with Bodega, agreeing that he will find Vera for Bodega. I thought this idea of trade to be the basis for this book. Throughout the story, people are often making trades, saying that they will do something, but only if you agree that you "owe" them something for it. This is exemplified in the Bodega-Chino relationship, and later with the Negra-Chino relationship. This story is all about who owes who what, and through this, these people are all connected. Bodega manipulates Chino to simply get to Vera, while Chino trades this to live in one of Bodega's apartments cheaply. As with Negra (this might be past halfway but I forgot to post earlier) who is beaten by her husband, she asks Chino to ask Bodega for help because Chino "owes" her.
"Are you Willie Bodega?" Geran respectfully asked, looking at all the unopened boxes. "You must be rich," he said, thinking the boxes held valuable things. (210)
I thought that this passage was very interesting due to a few things. First off, I was amazed that Willie Bodega had become like a king in Spanish Harlem and how even the new immigrants knew of him immediately upon arriving. It is also cute how this kid thought that because this man was rich, he must be Bodega. The meaning behind this passage is that Chino had a lot of stuff in his life like his friend Sapo that he viewed as unimportant almost, when really that friendship is clearly valuable from the perspective of anyone else. It could also mean that none of these things or this "stuff" was valuable now that Chino had lost Blanca, at least for the moment.
"As I was heading out, I heard Nene singing, "Mama, I just killed a man." His voice was strange, tense and tight. I turned toward him, saw the image on the television, saw it had nothing to do with the song. What was on was a shoe commercial." (170) As i said earlier i love Nene's character and this is one of the quotes that make him so interesting. With any other chracter the person would have to say something to give anything away, but Nene almost speaks in code. He only sings things that have to do with what is going on, and that is why this quote is great. Because it is obvious that he is not singing about the commercial we are shown that this is in fact what he is thinking about...killing Salazar.
"There were paintings and statues and mirros and beautiful wodden things--nothing like where we lived. That was the first time I really saw the difference between those that had and those that hadn't" (44).
I found it interesting that Quinonez decided to put this flashback at this point in the novel because it was after the first meeting Chino had with Bodega. Bodega's dream was to rebuild the neighborhood and help out the fellowman. This flashback is an example of showing how the rich were rich and the poor were poor. Before this event, Chino thought that most of Spanish Harlem was poor and living on ends meat like he had been, but visiting the place where his mother worked really was a wake up call to how horrible their living situation really was, and there was nothign he could do. But placing this flashback at this point, Quinonez is able to foreshadow what Bodega's dream is to be and how everyone falls into place.
"I opened the window and we climbed out onto the fire escape. East Harlem loomed below and ahead of us. He stretched out his arms and took a deep breath, like he had done when he showed Vera his renovated tenements. 'See it's alive,' he said." (212)
This passage provides the distinctly Gatsby-esque image of the main character stretching out his arms towards his desires. I think the motion itself portrays a sense felt in both stories--of stretching and reaching out, persistently trying but ultimately unable to grasp the dreams in the distance. This dream for Gatsby is to win over Daisy, but though Bodega shares a similar dream he also desires to see the Latino population thrive and rise from its circumstances. The fact that he reaches towards the renovated buildings may be an indicator of this. So unlike Gatsby, Bodega did have multiple aspirations in life, but maybe his motivation to cause social change was solely to gain a name so widely and openly renowned that Vera would take notice and be impressed. Therefore, it's possible all Bodega's efforts can be attributed (or at least partially so) to his pursuit of Vera and this quote connects both ideas since it’s described he had reached out similarly when showing the buildings to Vera. -Carolyn (maiorana)
"No one but Bodega and Nazario, who loved that tired piece of land just off the East River. They would rebuild it, repaint it, adn watch as others stepped back, looked at it, and pulled their har in dismay. 'This was always a beautiful place. Why couldn't we see that before?'" (161).
I found this quote to be interesting because it really showed the passion and determination that Bodega and Nazario had. Yet, in his thoughts, Chino realizes taht it can be beautiful on its own, BECAUSE it's its own. Chino understands what Bodega and Nazario are doing but he does not necessarily want to be a part of it because he feels that once they are gone, Spanish Harlem will remain as is, and thats good enough for him.
"It's important for me to rememver that night, because once I heard that name it was never about Blanca or Sapo. As important as they were to me, it was always about Bodega. We were all insignificant, dwarfed by what his dream meant to Spanish Harlem," (19).
This quote is a fantastic representation of what life is like in Spanish Harlem. People are so poor that they will go as far as to forget their loved ones to acheive a better livingstyle for them. Bodega is thinking big and everybody is going along with it, dreaming, because it is nice to dream of great things, but in truth nothing will be achieved if we put the people we love in the past and just think into the future.
"'Thats why we never see her. She married well. Some rich Cuban she met. They live in Miami' That rang a faint bell."
Even though this is a tiny, seemingly insignificant quote, I remembered reading this while reflecting on the Gatsby post. So much was written on how Vera and Daisy are the same person from two different worlds, and this quote reinforces those statements. Daisy, in Gatsby, only half-heartedly married to Tom Buchanan, mostly for financial benefits. Never is her background mentioned nor does she ever talk about her family, giving the reader the appearance that she is 'forgotten'. Interestingly enough, the parelells continue between Bodega and Gatsby, with the characterization of Vera. Vera seemingly evaded her Latin roots and married into Cuban wealth for social status. Quinonez writes 'That rang a faint bell,' almost letting the reader on a little secret, a little bell is ringing from F. Scott Fitzgerald's notebook. Vera and Daisy continue to be classified as the same person with these small details.
"Tomorrow Spanish Harlen would run faster, fly higher, strectch out its arms farther, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings. The neighborhood sensed this, and in my dream the peopl were jumping, shaking, and jamming as if the rednt weren't due for six months. Like Iris Chacon inside a washing machine during an earthquake, Richter scale 8.9. There was salsa and beer for all. The neighborhood might have been down, but it was far from out. Its people far from defeat. They had been bounced all ober the place but they were still jamming." (213)
I think this is a good quote to wrap up the book. Not only because it is the last paragraph of the novel, but because it embodies what this story was about, the dreams of something bigger and better. The whole time, Chino and Blanca were struggling to get better jobs and Bodega is struggling to make his life better by rekindling his love with Vera. Both of these hopes are optimistic dreams, and they seem far fetched, but they are not entirely un-plausible. Here at the end, with all the talk of the Spanish Harlem one day seeing a brighter life, it just seems to fit the whole message of the story.
"Don't you wee what's happening? A new language means a new race. Spanglish is the future. It's a new language being born out of the ashes of two cultures clashing with each other...Words that arent't English or Spanish but at the same time are both." (212)
Although at times I had questioned the idea and practices of Bodega, Chinto's dream made me a believer of its effectiveness. At times, especially at the very beginning of book 2,it seemed as though Bodega was trying to form some type of big brother communist village that he was brainwashing. After his death, its clear that his legacy was positive, no matter what his real intentions were. He brought hope and unity back into the community, something it did not previously have. This quote demonstrates the true effect that his actions had. He brought the whites and hispanics together adn gave them the opportunity to succeed, something Sapo and Chino did not have while growing up.
"He shot him.Listen' he said coldly,'we had to lay all the blame on Willie, because Willie was already dead. Understand?''Iunderstand. When was heshot?''on his way to give himself up''For Vera?''Yes' (197) This was one of my favoritequotes in the entire book. WIlli has dedicated his life for Vera and then on his way to sacrfice himself to her he was killed. This was an amazing quote for me because it showd how this man spent hiswhole life on something and his pay day never came.
To me this was the most memorable quotes from the first half of the story. i though that it really showed how Bodega's true vision. I also found it a little funny. The quote most reminded me of Frank Lucas from American Gangster. But all of that aside, it shows that Bodega is doing what is necessary in his mind to brighten up his ghetto, full fill his vision, and give his people a fighting chance in the world. -Will
"As always Latino kills Latino, we'll always be a little people" (159).
This quote shows just how much Nazario actually cares about Bodega's dream, lifting Spanish Harlem out of the slums and making a name for themselves. Nazario talks philosophically of Latinos killing Latinos, when ironically he shoots Bodega so he can pursue his own goal: Vera. Bodega is truly seen as a martyr with the murals painted depicting him as angel with a halo. Cool book.
"The way a picture that's been hanging on a wall for years leaves a shadow of light behind, Bodega had kicked the door down and left a green light of hope for everyone."
I like chose this quote for several reasons. The first is that it does an excellent job of describing what Bodega did for the community. The second is that is cleverly written. The first part metaphorically describes what Bodega has done for East Harlem. The second part is a clear reference to the green light that symbolized Gatsby's hope for being with Daisy again.
"It once held the soul of Willie Bodega. so the people had taken to the streets, but in honor, not anger." 208) This quote demonstrates the impact that Bodega had on Spanish Harlem. He may not have changed the city or the World like had hoped, but he changed the lives of thousands struggling Spanish immigrants. He also showed people what was possible with a little ingenuity and luck. Willie Bodega left behind a legacy of a man of vision, and more importantly an idea, and an idea never dies. -Will
"I hate towers. The taller the building, the more people you place on top of one another, the higher the crime rate. They're mammoth filing cabinets of human lives, like bees in a honeycomb, crowded and angry at paying rent for boxes that resemble prison cells" (70).
I think that this passage is incredibly interesting. Chino is looking at a forty-story building and is able to develop amazingly true connections, downplaying the building. Looking at a building through Chino's perspective gave me a different type of insight into the idea of a skyscraper. An apartment building is very similar to a filing cabinet, with each person assigned to a certain number. I really like the writing style here and how well the building is described in terms that I would have never thought of before.
"tell him," Bodega almost whispered, "tell him you never loved him. Tell him you're staying with me." Vera looked at Bodega as if the suggestion was innapropriate. As if affairs were all right just as long as they were kept in the dark. "William," she cried. "I'm leaving him, isn't that enough?"(189)
I found that this quote reminded me so much of The Great Gastby. Bodega seemed kind of desperate when he was telling Vera to tell John all this, and I thought Gatsby was the same way. He was desperate for Daisy, and would do anything for her, just like Bodega, who even takes blame for the death of John. He will do anything for Vera, and it seems as though he was desperate to have her. -Eric H
"Hey Willie," I said as I was about to walk out the door. "I think you're worth all the souls in hell. Thass thousands more souls there are in heaven. So you're worth a lot, pana," (193).
This quote stuck out to me because it shows that Chino is a good guy at heart and deserves more credit than he's given. I also liked that Bodega got this satisfaction in his life. I always felt bad for him, especially in the end because he just got screwed over. This would be something I would remember if I was Bodega. Just a simple compliment. And it also made me laugh a little, just because I feel like Chino is right. There is probably a lot more souls in hell than there are in heaven.
"So you have a nice car and make good money, but Bodega, Bodega is the Man. Bodega has made a name for himself. You know about names, Sapo. When you get one it's only a matter of time before you have to prove who you are. And Bodega has the biggest name in the neighborhood."
.......(continues a little farther down the page)
"It's such a big name that it's only a matter of time before someone will wan a slice he won't wanna give up." (41)
This passage really emphasizes the importance of characters' names in Bodega Dreams. It seems as though names are crucial to identifying a person and their significance in El Barrio. Because "Bodega is the man", he has the most important name and plays a very significant part in the society. Sapo, in addition to Bodega, earns a good amount of money and has a luxurious car, yet Bodega still has the upper hand over Sapo, and is more popular among his community SIMPLY because of his name. It seems as though in the real world it is more common for people to be well known because of their luxuries and money, however in Bodega Dreams, it is the actual name that classifies a persons significance. This also relates to the Great Gatsby with Jay Gatsby.
As Maryam mentioned above, on page four it mentions the "coolness" of having a nickname, if you don't have one than you are "useless, meaningless thing". It also sates that if you didn't have a nick name then you hadn't found your true identity, or proved yourself, and were opening up a chance for anyone to kick your ass.
"When you see that, then you will understand why the Americans wanted it and called it Manifest Destiny and not what it really was, theft." (160)
I picked this passage because I thought it showed the ideals behind Nazario and Bodega in a way that kind of makes sense. They want to make a fortune, live the good life, a legal life and he's comparing what they're doing to the early days of American history, where NAtive Americans were driven out of their land, and that land was taken by the people of the original 13 colonies. Nazario is saying to Chino that the only way to become rich and legal is starting with things illegally and working your way up. That's really interesting and unique to me so that's why I chose that passage.
"It's a beautiful new language. Don't you see what's happening? A new language means a new race. Spanglish is the future. It's a new language being born out of the ashes of two cultures clashing with each other. You will use a new language. Words that they might not teach you in college. Words that arent't English or Spanish but at the same time are both." (212)
This passage really emphasizes the differences and similarities of the English and Spanish culture. I believe that this quote really ties together the ending of the book. Many controversies and conflicts occur between American and Hispanic people because the hispanic race is not always looked highly upon. From this quote, we can see that the actions Bodega took were significant to affecting and changing the relationship between whites and hispanics. They were finally able to connect with one another and become united and succeed. This was a new opportunity for Sapo and Chino that they were not exposed to and could not experience while growing up. By the end of the story, it is easy to see that after Bodega's death, his position and role in society left a positive affect among the people.
"'The guys she really loved, his name was Edwin Nazario. You Julio,' she said, talking like her sister, 'have been played." (200)
I'm not sure why this passage stood out as very important, but I just think that it represents that novel as a whole. It gives the truth of the novel "bodega dreams" and I liked how Quinonez saved it until page 200. I was not at all expecting Vera and Naziro to be the ones going for each other, but as Chino pieced together all the parts of the puzzle, it ended up making a lot of sense. It was just one of those "wow" moments, which ocurred a lot throghout the novel, but this one stood out to me the most. When Blanca was telling Chino that he'd been played, it reminded me of the show punk'd, where they tell the guests in the show that they have been punk'd. I just thought it was so funny when Blanca told Chino that. The quote was definetly significant to the story.
"I shot him," Bodega said, making sure Vera didn't hear anything, "You understand me, Chino?" I nodded, but right then I knew Bodega was lost... When he looked at me that night, his face still had that radiant look, that well-focused beam that couldn't miss its target. But miss it, it would." (192)
I chose this quote because it helped me to pause and recollect my thoughts after such an intense event. Bodega trusted in Chino, and Chino later gave him compliments and his respect. I kind of felt bad for Bodega, but knowing that he still remained "radiant" and strong was good to know. Also, after reading this quote, I was reminded of Gatsby. Gatsby always seemed to keep his composure, and stay calm after major events... like when Myrtle was hit by the car. This is connected to Bodega in that he has just shot someone, but within minutes remains relatively calm and content.
" I nodded, but right then i knew Bodega was lost. His dreams about the neighborhood had been too close to his love for Vera. incestuous cousins that had no right getting involved. WHen he looked at me that night, his face still had that radiant look, that well-focused beam that couldn't miss his target. But miss it, it would"(192). This is the time for me when i really realized that Bodega was in fact human, with human flaws. It is very powerful when coupled with CHino's first description of Willie's gaze. Willie is no longer omnipotent. He is just another man that does not know what to do with his life. It is also the point where it is decided that Willie's life has no meaning. he has spent it on two causes that have little hope of succeeding. -Cameron
Bodega had kicked the door down and left a green light of hope for everyone. He had represented the limitless possibilities in us all by living this life, striving for those dreams that seemed to elude the neighborhood year after year
this quote is like what the entire end of the book boils down to really, like the fact that one man could try so hard, and break all the rules and just generally go against the grain for what he believes in, thats what the book is about. Bodega didnt want to hurt anyone, he wanted to help everyone, but when people got in the way, things went wrong. But the R.I.P.'s all around the city show that Bodega had it right from the start.
"She said she loved me. She said that she didn't care if i didn;t have any money. The problem was, she said, i didnt have any vision on how to get it. She said she wouldn't mind being poor for a few years, but since i only had vision for political stuff, that i was going to be poor for the rest of my life"(79) This is the point where i first begin to question willie's judgement. How can he say these things and not question Vera's affection. it also starts to bind willie's dream of freeing spanish harlem and his dream of marrying vera, and that is when things go horribly wrong. the two dreams are different, and no matter how many times he tries to beat the system, it is proven that he cannot have both. -Cameron
"People remember you as someone who tried to make the neighborhood a better place. And that's good. Ans now they see yo'r in school and that's good too,..just remember bro, that no matter how much you learn, no matter how many books you read, how many degrees you get, in the end, you are from East Harlem." (36)
I though this was interesting because it really demonstrates how no matter how hard you try you will always be attached to where you grew up and your heritage. It also is important because it causes Chino to rethink how he was always trying to change himself so that he could leave and go somewhere better. After Bodega says this to him the idea of fixing up where he's from, and not trying to leave, starts to seem more appealing.
"I tried to empty my mind, but I still couldn't sleep. The refrigerator hummed loudly, like a Buddhist on crack." (183)
I'm sorry both quotes I chose where not that meaningful but I absoulutely loved Quinonez's writing style (and the book in general). His style made the book; there was not a dull moment in it. I chose this passage because it is an example of the similies he commonly uses to further portray his ideas. Like I said previously, he talks to you straight up; his similies are unique yet amazingly affective. I mean, who doesn't know what a cracked out buddhist sounds like? ...well, obviously we don't but regardless, I still know the exact sound that refrigerator was making.
"I fixed up my pillow and began to read. It was a book I had once loved and carried around with me, but I knew the real reason I was reading 'The Stranger' wasn't because I wanted to drift back into the past. It was simpler than that. I was afraid and missed Blanca. And when you've been with someone for a long time and they leave you, the saddest part is turning off the lights." (183)
Not only do I think this quote is absolutely BEAUTIFUL, but it holds so much in just a few sentences. It's obvious that only after Blanca leaves does he realize how much he loves her. He never wanted her to leave, but continued his business understanding that he was lying to her. This is significant because it kind of leads him into telling her the truth, but moreso, Sapo tells him that if he helps Bodega again, then they'll get on Blanca mother's good side which will influence Blanca's choice to come back to Chino. I also do not think the title 'The Stranger' was randomly used, because this distance between him and his wife makes him feel as though his lying had turned him into a different person, one he does not recognize. This quote shows that the true Chino is still alive and is willing to do whatever it takes to get Blanca back.
"East Harlem ha no business being in this rich city but there it was, filled with broken promises of a better life, dating decades back to the day when many Puerto Ricans and Latinos gathered their bags and carried their dreams on their backs and arrived in America, God's country. But they would never see God's face. Like all slumlords, God lived in the suburbs" (161).
This passage struck me for a number of reasons- I loved the imagery Quinonez used to describe the hope and idealism embodied in the immigrants, and the contrast between that hopefulness and the reality of the distance between the dream and the truth. The idea that God is such a con man, inspiring false hope so much he could be a slumlord, is a very unconventional analogy. The dissociation between God and the people he is supposed to care for is similar to that of a slumlord- far away and unconcerned with the situation of others while sitting so far away.
“I know I was to be the link between Bodega And Vera. I was determined to fulfill my part of the deal, once Bodega and Vera met I was completely free. I would sever all ties to bodega.” (97)
This quote shows how Chino really did not want to be involved with Bodega. It was at this point that Bodega had just offered him a new home for Chino and Blanca to live in. With the baby on the way, Chino found it hard to say no. This quote not only points out how much Chino wants to be free of Bodega but it also proves his love for Blanca. He wants to have a family that lives in a nice home. Chino seems to be a little mixed up on how to achieve this dream however his intentions were good and it shows his love for Blanca effectively ~Lauren Bowker
"I wanted to tell him it was crazy. But then I thought, why not? Why not us? Others have dreams, why not us? It was from that moment on that I realized all these hopes were bigger than me, more important than any one person. If these dreams would take off, El Barrio would [be] proud for decades" (106).
I love this quote because I think this is finally the moment where Chino realizes what Bodega and Nazario have been trying to explain to him all along. Chino is realizing that he can actually make a name for himself, not because he's a drug lord, but because he can dream, and his dreams will come true. Bodega has been trying to instill this ideas in Latinos his whole life, and it's working. El Barrio will change and become a better place because Bodega has created a mindset for the Latinos that their dreams can become a reality.
"I could already see that Nazario was a chameleon. He had the uncanny ability to be stoically cold under pressure and extremely warm with the people...It was Nazario who, by blending his education with politeness, had made himself be looked upon with love, respect, and a little fear throughout the neighborhood. His smile could be magically disarming but his head was crowded with practicality and genius." (98)
This quote was really interesting to me because it basically explained Nazario in a nutshell, which is a very hard thing to do for such a complex character. But it really gave me a sense of what Nazario was all about. Simply calling him a "chameleon" lets me in on the fact that Nazario is street smart and can change his game plan accordingly in order to get what he wants. And thats his gift- he knows exactly how to get what he wants. He has a certain intimidation that he knows how to use against people. And he's respected for that power of manipulation he has over people. Another thing is that even though he's bodega's assistant, its nazario who calls the shots.
an example of how he can manipulate is when he made himself seem like a hero after the fire, because he was assuring everyone he would find new place for everyone to live and he and bodega would make sure everyone got through the terrible tragedy, when in reality it was his fault.
"Spanglish is the future. It's a new language born out of the ashes of two cultures clashing each other. You will use a new language...words that aren't English or Spanish but at the same time are both" (212). I found this quote, which was from Chino's dream at the end, to be interesting and important. It shows the hope that will come with the future. And how Chino does not have to choose either the main-stream white culture or his Spanish heritage, he can be part of both simultaneously. This quote is also important because it shows the possibility of how cultures could begin to mix and in the future they might not be so separated and different.
"The only reason the mugger robs you is because he doesn't have access to the books. If he did, he'd be a lawyer" (103).
I found this line to be very interesting. To see a criminal committing a crime based on what they have access to, and what he doesn't have access to is what he lacks. A robber is not a lawyer because he doesn't have books to study from, but he can rob you because he has that access.
"You can stay with me. I have an extra room" (211).
This offer clearly marks a turning point in Julio's life. He has been inspired by the difference Bodega has made in Spanish Harlem. He doesn't want to get into all of the drugs, although it may make him rich. He just wants to do simple things which can improve his community. He hopes to live a less extreme version of Bodega's idealism. I think that this offering underscores Quinonez' message that we need to be good to one another. Most of us can't pay for our neighbor's college education, but there are little things we can do to help others. Whether we are trying to save the world or our neighborhood, we can only accomplish big things by doing nice things. - Kelley S.
" the guy she really loved, his name was edwin nazario. you, julio have been played"
i was shocked when i read this. how could all of this happen? it was so interesting to find out in the last couple of pages that alot of stuff has been a lie. and before i said i liked nazario for trying to help the people. but now i dont like him at all! i see now that bodega was the good one he was the one truelly trying to make spanish harlem better.
"Tomorrow Spanish Harlen would run faster, fly higher, strectch out its arms farther, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings." (213)
so clearly this quote was incredibly significant. its about the dreams and the legacy Bodega left behind and how his dream lives on and there's always optimism for a better future (and the book is TITLED "Bodega Dreams" for heaven sakes!). Like alyssa said, it was a great way to wrap up the story, because thats what it was about- getting to somewhere better off than where they were. Ane even though Bodega died and had a funeral in the end of the book (much like The Great Gatsby, as Eric pointed out), this quote shows that Bodega's hope didnt die with him.
"'Look around, Julio. Every time someone makes a million dollars, he kills some part of the world. That part has been us for so long, and it will continue unless we fight back. The day will come when, just like the white guy, we will also steal by signing the right papers.'" (159)
I think the quote by Nazario is significant because it exemplifies so much of what Bodega's empire is based on. There are so many conflicting interests within his plans because he wants so badly to make the neighborhood better, but only knows how to do so through crime. What Nazario realizes however, is that this is life. This is how one succeeds in getting what he or she wants, by committing crime. He realizes that you cannot gain one thing without losing another, and he's tired of his culture losing so much and gaining nothing.
"no one is perfect, Julio." she didn't appreciate my comment. "the church is full of imperfect people. Noah was a drunk, but god gave him the ark. david committed adultery with Bathsheba but god made him king. Peter denied Christ, but god - " (62)
THis quote really interests me because its a strange yet intriguing quote states to show how no one is perfect. it really caught my attention, and shows how the characters accept their imperfections, and know that no matter how many imperfections they have, they can still get though life and be successful just like anyone else.
"a slum that has been handed down from immigrant to immigrant, like used clothing worn and reworn, stitched and restitched by different ethnic groups who continue to pass it on” (161)
THis quote was talking about the Spanish Harlem, and it really interested me because it talked about how this culture that everyone grows up in gets handed down over and over again. however, it is not what gets passed down culturally, but how the culture gets molded by the different people that take it in, creating different lifestyles as the years go on.
80 comments:
"Bodega would go down as a representation of all its ugliness in Spanish Harlem, and also all the good it was capable of being." (14)
I do not understand why Bodega is said to be a representation of ugliness. Up into halfway through the book, Bodega seems to be doing a good deed, helping out new immigrants by providing jobs and cleaning up tenement buildings. He may be "ugly" because of the drugs he sells to achieve this, but perhaps shows the capability of spanish harlem with his acts of good deeds and hope.
-bowen
"He had always been Sapo but that year, after biting Blessington, he started turning into someone who wasn't afraid to die...He had reached the point in existence where he wasn't afraid to hurt anyone who threatened his only source of meaning, his love for himself." (92)
I thought this was interesting because it reflects on the killing of Salazar, the Spanish reporter. It seems obvious that Sapo did bite Salazar, so I wonder what will happen to him next- especially because he is linked to Bodega. Since Sapo has an excessive amount of pride, Salazar could have done something insignificant to threaten Sapo's "only source of meaning."
-Zenya M
"Bodega and Nazario had seen what guns could do. They knew you could not attack the Anglo like that. You had to play by his rules and, like him, steal by signing the right papers" (106).
This quote is great because its part of the last two pages of one of the chapters where Bodega's dream is finally spelled out. But this quote in particular tells why Bodega is going about achieving his dream in such an outwardly legal manner. The idea of playing by the Anglo's rules and "stealing by signing the right papers" is phrased so poetically and ingeniously and is very true. We hold the stereotype that if non-Anglos make a lot of money they must have sold drugs or used force, but if Anglos have a lot of money they got it through non-harmful means (even if those means weren't legal).I just think that Quinonez hit the nail on the head with his point both in this quote and in the overall nature of Bodega's dream.
-Victoria M
"Tommorrow Spanish Harlem would run faster, fly higher, stretch out its arms farther, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings." (213)
Unlike in The Great Gatsby, the end of Bodega Dreams gives us hope that what Bodega worked so hard for will eventually happen. At the end of The Great Gatsby, a meek funeral was held for Gatsby, but in Bodega Dreams, Bodega had a funeral with everybody on the block coming to it. This last quote sums the book up, it means that there is still hope for an evolving Spanish Harlem even though its sole propreitor is dead.
-Eric Leone
"But what it means is fourteen familes that would riot for Bodega. Fourteen families that would take a bullet for Bodega." (29)
I thought this passage clearly exemplifies the image Bodega is trying to get across to Chino. His whole mission is to tend to the peole of Spanish harlem, and to care for them, give them whatever they need. And in turn, he expects complete loyalty from them. He's involved in a lot of dirty business and the more people that have his back the better. He surrounds himself with people so that when the time comes, he doesn't have to do anything.
- Katie C
Bodega and Nazario had seen what guns could do. They knew you could not attack the Anglo like that. You had to play by his rules and, like him, steal by signing the right papers" (106)
I think this quote is representative of the entire book really, the way that everything has to go down in back rooms and things like that, how no one can really say exactly what they mean, and also, the bit about "the anglo" starts the polarization, and i just feel like its going to become more and more pervasive.
“He paused for about a second and looked at me. For the first time I saw his eyes were a strange shade of pale brown, as if they had been dulled by some deep sadness that the years had turned into anger. (26)”
This quote was said by Chino about Bodega. It was during their first meeting and Chino’s first impression of Willie. Willie was talking about how Puerto-Rican Americans do not get any respect in America and are just put under one title, Hispanic.
I found this passage to be interesting because it opened my eyes to a possible motive of why Bodega is involved in the business he is. This passage illuminated that maybe Bodega had a hard childhood or upbringing and the drug business is a way for him to “stick it to the man”. Maybe he is involved with drugs for the sole reason that they are illegal and is almost giving America the same treatment it has given him. It is his way of beating the system and his way to feel more important in America.
This passage also shows some heart to Bodega and makes him more human. I thought that maybe he helps people with his money so no one will have to go through what he did. He is trying to better people’s lives so the do not have to feel the “deep sadness” that was, or still is, in his life. (Maybe his unhappiness and anger does not solely surround around Vera.....hmmmm....)
This passage also increases the amount of mystery surrounding Bodega. When reading, I like suspense so this passage made me want to continue reading even more. :P
~Victoria Welch
"As I was heading out, I heard Nene singing, "Mama, I just killed a man." His voice was strange, tense and tight. I turned toward him, saw the image on the television, saw it had nothing to do with the song. What was on was a shoe commercial." (170)
I found this passage to be really interesting because the narrator indiscreetly informs the reader that Nene was the one who killed Salazar. It shows that Bodega was so powerful even to get his own cousin, who was "slow," to kill a man. Nene seemed so innocent to me up until this point in the novel because he was faithful to Bodega as his guard and he was friendly with Chino.
Zenya M
"'That's right. But in the beginning, you have to do certain things. What do you think, it comes from nothing? America is a great nation, I have no doubts about that, but in its early days it had to take some shady steps to get there. Manifest Destiny, that was just another word for genocide.'" (160)
This quote (Nazario to Chino) is really interesting because it serves a number of purposes. It provides characterization for Nazario portraying his good education but also his unique look on things. This quote shows that Nazario truly believes that it doesn't matter how greatness is achieved, and often force is both necessary and appropriate. Of course this is an odd point-of-view for a man whose business is diplomacy and using words to fix things.
This quote also caught my attention because of its truth. There are a lot of these type of quotes by Quinonez; they're poetic but blunt, and they always manage to grab attention, like the first quote I chose.
Finally, this quote foreshadows the end of the book, however vaguely. It shows that Nazario is not afraid to use whatever means necessary to achieve his goals, goals that NAZARIO, not Bodega, is always talking to Chino about.
-Victoria M
"There was something honest in his dishonesty. Unlike Blanca, I believed it was dishonest people that brought about change. It was paradoxical people like Bodega who started revolutions" (38).
This quote from Chino is an interesting assessment of humans. One would expect that good, honest people are the only ones who have positive effects on the world. Chino, however, believes that a man like Bodega, who commits crimes in order to help out both himself and the community,are the people who truly help society.
-Matt Campbell
"So you have a nice car and make good money, but Bodega, Bodega is the Man. Bodega has made a name for himself. You know about names, Sapo. When you get one it's only a matter of time before you have to prove who you are. And Bodega has the biggest name in the neighborhood." (41)
In this quote, Chino is talking to Sapo about Bodega and the significance of names. I feel that the topic of 'names' seems to be important to the novel because it dictates who you are and what you stand for in El Barrio. Even though Sapo has a good car and makes good money, Bodega still has the biggest name and that seems to be very important in their society. It doesn't matter how rich you are, the name is what matters. On page 4 it also talks about nicknames and how if you don't have one then you are a 'useless, meaningless thing'. It's just intersting how the author decided to nickname all the characters and represent them in different ways. I wonder what other significanes the 'names' might have to the rest of the novel...
~Maryam Semenov
I think the quote about names that Maryam shared is an interesting one, and it also illuminates a good parallel with The Great Gatsby. Names are just as important in that novel- think about James Gatz vs. Jay Gatsby. (Also, a name like Buchannan vs. a name like Gatz.)
-Ms. Coppens
"She said she loved me. She said that she didn't care if I didn't have any money. The problem was, she said, I didn't have any vision of how to get it." (79)
This is the scene where Bodega is telling Chino about Vera, and his past with her. I found this statement to be kind of ironic, because first Vera told Bodega it didnt matter that he was poor, then she completely contradicts herself saying that he should plan on getting some. But i guess this is kind of where Bodega motivation is coming from; he really wants to show Vera that he's grown up.
-steph
"as the camerapanned an empty pier, still wet from the afternoon rain, the spanish newscaster reported that there was evidence of a struggle. In addition to the gunshot wound, salazar had suffered a serious bit to the shoulder. thats when i know who had killed him." (82)
After reading this i was stunned and in shock. I knew Sapo didnt like when people messed with him but he always seemed deep down inside nice and knew what he wanted in life, he had also been a good friend to chino. I was expecting for Sapo to go and kill someone but it did put a good twist on the story, i was excited to see what would happen next.
- Kristen scopetski
i was NOT expecting for sapo to go kill someone
kristen scopetski ^^^^^^^^^^
"It was Nazario who, by blending his education with politeness, had made himself be looked upon with love, respect, and a little fear throughout the neighborhood. His smile could be magically disarming but his head was crowded with practicality and genius. Unlike Bodega's eyes, which were pools of ghosts and sadness, Nazario's were black holes, nothing could escape them, not even light, as if he could read your mind." (98)
-This passage can be seen as evidence of the influential power of formalized education and knowledge in the Spanish Harlem society. It describes how Nazario's education and behavior allowed him to have so much power, without doing much "dirty work." Through intimidation and wits he he is able to manipulate his surroundings. Also, I think the descriptions of Willy and Nazario's eyes reveal elements of their relationship. The fact that Willy's are pools of sadness, and Nazario's are "black holes" shows how Willy is dependent on Nazario. Nazario provides the cold, hard methods to get things done that Willy cannot carry out on his own.
-Carolyn
"Ebarito shook my hand, then Bodega's. I gave Ebarito my name and introduced Bodega as Jose Tapia. Ebarito said that my friend was also welcome to come by his social club. Then he complimented us on our suits, told us we looked like la aristocracia puerto-rriquena. Bodega found this funny and asked Ebarito for his name again. Bodega made a mental note of it. He was going to reward Ebarito in the near future, I could tell. We kept walking," (110).
This quote really demonstrated to me how much of a hold that Bodega held on the community. Ebarito had only seen Chino with Nazario that morning, and went out of his way when he saw him again to flatter and kiss up to Chino and his friend. It also shows what a low profile Bodega kept, since he was not ever recognizable on the street but held such power in the neighborhood. After hearing the joke Ebarito made, Bodega wished to reward this man for his wit, and Chino recognized that this was his intent. Everything turned into politics, and the people such as Ebarito realized this and took advantage of this fact.
-Shannon Langella
"See, Chino, any Puerto Rican or any of my Latin brothers and sisters who are stupid enough to buy that shit... don't belong in my Great Society" (31).
Bodega claims to be trying to save the neighborhood, trying to turn it around and create a better, more respectable world. However, his willingness to sell to people in his own community is counter-intuitive. Selling drugs to any member of the society he is trying to better is polluting the air he breathes. No matter how much better he makes Spanish Harlem, how much money he pours into it, he is still promoting the stereotypes and problems that plague the area. The people he is selling to are the same ones he is "helping", which cancels out whatever progress he might be making. He can't eliminate certain people from the "Great Society" he is trying to mold, because its an all-or-nothing situation.
-Christina
Great point Christina
-Ms. Coppens
"'Hey, Willie,' I said as I was about to walk out the door, 'I think that you're worth all the souls in hell. Thass thousands of more souls than there are in heaven. So you're worth a lot, pana'" (193).
This quote comes when Chino leaves Bodega and Vera after Vera has shot and killed Vidal. I thought that this quote brought forth a very interesting concept. Chino says that it is the only compliment he has ever given Bodega and it seems like such a strange one to give. Chino is basically telling Bodega that he is worthy of innumerable evil souls. Basically, Bodega is worth a lot and is basically pure, like souls, but those souls are evil in some ways. It was also interesting to note how Chino addresses Willie Bodega, a man who had caused him such stress and heartache, as his pana. Clearly, Bodega has had a positive effect on Chino.
-Matt Campbell
“You still watch public television, William?” She laughed and reached her hand to Bodega, who clasped it like a drowning man would a raft.” (122)
This quote takes place between Bodega and Vera when they were talking about the Hermitage art museum. I think this quote gave the reader a great visual of the scene. I loved how Quinonez compared Bodega to a person in such desperate measures. It really showed how intense this who reunion was to Bodega. This was his one chance to survive with his true love and if he missed it, another opportunity may have not floated by. I also think this quote may have given us a little glimpse at Vera teasing Bodega. It is almost as if she knew that was what he longed for. I remember when reading this, I said in my head sarcastically, “Hope that’s not foreshadowing!” Who knew that it was?! :)
~Victoria Welch
See Chino, I'm talking about property. I'm talking about owning this neighborhood legally...I'm talkin' about ownin' a big chunk of the most expensive real estate in all the nine planets" (36).
This quote comes very early on in the book, to lay out the master plan and framework for the novel, perfectly called 'Bodega Dreams'. To understand the entire book, the reader needs to understand that the book is not about a series of drug dealing, market robbing Ricans, but at the heart lies a man with serious 'inspiracíon'. Bodega instantly turns from the essential drug lord he was made out to be, the antagonist almost, to becoming a God in Chino's eyes, a man that would lead himself and Spanish Harlem to greatness. Even if their world is surrounded in drugs, murder and crime, this statement reveals the tiny light that shines bright in the hearts Spanish Harlem.
putnam
"I loved Sapo. I loved Sapo because he loved himself. And I wanted to be able to do that, to rely on myself for my own happiness." (3)
I think this is a really interesting quote, because, while Sapo is indeed self sufficient, I'm not really sure that he is totally happy. While he has Chino, Sapo seems to live in realative solitude, with many aquaitences, and many people who know his name, but not many people who he could call his near and dear. I think that his toughness, and his seemingly contentedness with this kind of life style is a coverup for being miserably lonely. Still, Chino, who has the life with people he cares for like Sapo doesn't, admires Sapo for his lonliness.
~Alyssa
“He paused for about a second and looked at me. For the first time I saw his eyes were a strange shade of pale brown, as if they had been dulled by some deep sadness that the years had turned into anger.” (26)
This quote is important because it is the first time we see the motivtation and determination that Bodega has. But more so we see that there may be more to Bodega's vision. Chino notes that the sadness has turned into anger which may be a sign of how his vision has changed from a postive thing for the community to a self-centered act that may end up harming the communtity because Bodega is too caught up in his love for Vera.
Another interesting point is the parallel between Bodega and Gatsby. In the great Gatsby, Nick makes references to Gatsby's eyes like Chino is doing with Bodega.
--Scott Hagen
"But I take care of the community and the communityt will take care of me." p.30 Bodega
This quote was significant because this was the belief that Bodega built his life off of. It was interesting to find out that when he died the people did not take to the street and riot like he thought they would. They were probably scared toget involved with the whole thing. He did not think about that
"Tommorow Spanish Harlem would run faster, fly higer. stretch out its arm father, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings." p. 213
This quote determined that Bodega's dream had been accomplised. Not completely, but it said that he changed the neighborhood. Bodega's dream was going to come true the sad part was that he would not be there to experience it.
Steve Lesnikowski
"I placed fourteen families on the buildin', cheap rent, too. You know what that means, Chino?...But what that means ss fourteen families that would riot for Bodega. Fourteen families that would take a bullet for Bodega."
In this passage, as Bodega talks with Julio, he reveals the "real" reason that he is purchasing numerous tenaments in NYC. Not to provide a better life for the ever-struggling and povery stricken families of Spanish Harlem, but to create the Great Society similar to that of the Italians. It seems as though Bodega no longer desires money. He now strives image and protection, something even more valuable on the "streets." If he can not acquire this own his own, he will use as many people as it takes to get it done, even if it means the entire community.
-Joe D
"Ya know, Chino, at least I admit I only think about myself. But you, you play it off as if you really care about other people when in fact it's always been you, you, and fucken you." (42)
I thought this was important just to show how different Sapo and Chino really are. As hard as Chino tries to be like Sapo, he will always be a different person. Chino thinks before he acts, and although Sapo does not think it, Chino does care about people other than himself. It seems as if Sapo is the one who cares only about himself, and is always asking Chino for favors.
-Eric H
"It was always about Bodega. And to this day it continues to be about Bodega. Bodega had an unforgettable blend of nobility and street, as if God never made up his mind whether to have Bodega be a born leader or a hood. Bodega did something to the neighborhood, something with staying power, like that song that no one could possibly like but you, because you heard it at a time when your heart was breaking," (85).
This is such a well-worded description of Bodega. But the line that I liked the best was the last part about nobody but you could understand because you connected with it. Chino connected with Bodega in many ways and nobody else could understand because it was a personal thing. I love how Bodega is still human. He's not just this emotionless ruler. He is a good balance of different characteristics that make him such an interesting character. He can connect with those below him because he isnt just some rich man that cares only about himself. Underneath he really does only benefit himself, but he covers it up well and makes the community seem like his first priority. He's brilliant and intriguing and relaxed about severe situations.
-Kelsey Laning
"'I didn't ask you why the knife flew out of your hands, right? I wrote on the form that Victor fell on it. Victor wanted to tell the truth. Victor wanted to tell the doctors that his wife threw it at him.... But I convinced him not to.... So, mira, you owe me. You owe me big.'" (59)
I found this passage especially interesting because of the way Chino straight up lies to Negra. Victor had clearly told him in the taxi on the way to the hospital that he wanted Chino to write that he had fallen on the knife, yet Chino tells Negra the exact opposite. I also think it kind of shows the influence people like Sapo and Bodega are having on him. For instance, his lying would be influenced by Sapo in the manipulation he is using it for. Though Sapo does not manipulate Chino by lying to him, he still uses him a lot and I feel like this influences Chino's motivation to manipulate other people. Also, I feel like this is kind of the beginning of "everything being about Bodega", like Chino says it is early on. He is lying to his sister-in-law to get what he needs to make Bodega happy. At the beginning I didn't see Chino as the type of person that would do that and I think this might be the beginning of somewhat of a metamorphasis into a person that would do anything to make Bodega pleased.
---Jillian Pellegrini
"The things I do, they're just a means to get me what I need, and when I'm done I'm going to be respectable and send my kids to harvard, like Joe Kennedy."
I thought this was interesting coming from Bodega. Even though he's a drug dealer and handles in some shady stuff, his whole perception of life is unique. He's saying that all the things he does, are all for the future kind of. Like he has an ultimate goal for himself and he'll do some lowly things to help get it. Bodega seems in a way to be more about others and not himself, which makes this drug dealing thug, become more of a hero in light of all the things he does.
Eric Wu
"Considering the magnitude of what blanca would be asking, if Negra or anyone Negra knew could deliver, the payback wouldn't just be a bitch but a house full of whores." 64
To be honest, a big reason for selecting this passage was because I thought it was hilarious. I love Quinonez' writing style because it is so straight up. He writes like a person would talk, telling the reader exactly what is going on without being too wordy or anything. Another reason for selecting this passage is because payback is a big part of the story so far. Not payback as in revenge, but as owing somebody something--in terms of favors. So far (im on p.140 now) everything has been about "I'll get your back if you get mine." Whether it be defending your pana on the street, or simply doing someone a favor, good deeds are not forgotten in Bodega Dreams.
~Jacob Burnstein
“Enrique might have some money and drive a BMW but he still lives in the same roach-invested building that we do. He can’t leave because his money is only good here” (15).
This quote shows what Banca truly thinks of Sapo. She is trying to convice Julio that he is not a good guy because even though he has all of this money he still lives in the same building they do. This is an example of her being the voicve of wisdom in the novel. She is trying to give example to prove to her husband that Sapo is really not as well off as he comes across. She seems to see straight through Sapo and only wishes her husband could see the same. I think she knows though that there is only so much warning she can give which is why she sort of backs off for a little bit and could only hope for the best. This quote really emphasizes how shady Sapo truly is. It brings a reality to the fact that he supposedly has all of this money but can't get out of that roach-infested building.
~Lauren Bowker
"I didn't want to get more involved, but not knowing what was really happening might hurt me" (99).
Already, Julio has been faced with many moral dilemmas. He knows that he is getting involved with some bad people, but he recognizes that it might be the only way to provide his family with the things that they need. This story makes it easy to see how easily one could get sucked into such ugly situations. Julio is clearly not an evil or stupid man, yet he is getting himself involved with some pretty bad things. It will be interesting to see if Julio is able to draw a line and finally stop being so dependant on Bodega. Hopefully by the time Blanca gives birth he will be able to get rid of his connections to Bodega and Sapo, although that is looking doubtful.
-Kelley S.
"The next day at work, I was pricing cans. It was better than straightening shelves because I got to use the sticker gun. When little kids were shopping with their moms, I would show off by pricing an entire box of cans real quick, and they got a kick out of that." (48)
This quote could definitely just appear as random, or not very meaningful. However, when I read I saw it as much more than Chino explaining an average day at work. I saw it as Chino's innocence coming through a bit despite his tough exterior. Also, the fact that he recognizes the children's reactions... it shows that he cares about the feelings of others, especially children which is why I think he will be a great father. Like Blanca, who brings out the best in Chino, other times that bring him a simple, child like, pleasure like pricing cans portrays Chino's better side.
--Laura Hundley
"Sitting there in the dark I saw some daylight. Bodega wanted something from me, so I would ask something in return. It was basic, simple street politics: you want something from me then you better have something I need." (47)
This is Chino's thought as he makes a deal with Bodega, agreeing that he will find Vera for Bodega.
I thought this idea of trade to be the basis for this book. Throughout the story, people are often making trades, saying that they will do something, but only if you agree that you "owe" them something for it. This is exemplified in the Bodega-Chino relationship, and later with the Negra-Chino relationship. This story is all about who owes who what, and through this, these people are all connected. Bodega manipulates Chino to simply get to Vera, while Chino trades this to live in one of Bodega's apartments cheaply. As with Negra (this might be past halfway but I forgot to post earlier) who is beaten by her husband, she asks Chino to ask Bodega for help because Chino "owes" her.
Great points about owing and payback. Jacob, I also thought that quote was hilarious. Good choice.
-Ms. Coppens
"Are you Willie Bodega?" Geran respectfully asked, looking at all the unopened boxes. "You must be rich," he said, thinking the boxes held valuable things. (210)
I thought that this passage was very interesting due to a few things. First off, I was amazed that Willie Bodega had become like a king in Spanish Harlem and how even the new immigrants knew of him immediately upon arriving. It is also cute how this kid thought that because this man was rich, he must be Bodega. The meaning behind this passage is that Chino had a lot of stuff in his life like his friend Sapo that he viewed as unimportant almost, when really that friendship is clearly valuable from the perspective of anyone else. It could also mean that none of these things or this "stuff" was valuable now that Chino had lost Blanca, at least for the moment.
-Shannon Langella
"As I was heading out, I heard Nene singing, "Mama, I just killed a man." His voice was strange, tense and tight. I turned toward him, saw the image on the television, saw it had nothing to do with the song. What was on was a shoe commercial." (170)
As i said earlier i love Nene's character and this is one of the quotes that make him so interesting. With any other chracter the person would have to say something to give anything away, but Nene almost speaks in code. He only sings things that have to do with what is going on, and that is why this quote is great. Because it is obvious that he is not singing about the commercial we are shown that this is in fact what he is thinking about...killing Salazar.
Matthew Fitch
"There were paintings and statues and mirros and beautiful wodden things--nothing like where we lived. That was the first time I really saw the difference between those that had and those that hadn't" (44).
I found it interesting that Quinonez decided to put this flashback at this point in the novel because it was after the first meeting Chino had with Bodega. Bodega's dream was to rebuild the neighborhood and help out the fellowman. This flashback is an example of showing how the rich were rich and the poor were poor. Before this event, Chino thought that most of Spanish Harlem was poor and living on ends meat like he had been, but visiting the place where his mother worked really was a wake up call to how horrible their living situation really was, and there was nothign he could do. But placing this flashback at this point, Quinonez is able to foreshadow what Bodega's dream is to be and how everyone falls into place.
-Krystle D.
"I opened the window and we climbed out onto the fire escape. East Harlem loomed below and ahead of us. He stretched out his arms and took a deep breath, like he had done when he showed Vera his renovated tenements. 'See it's alive,' he said." (212)
This passage provides the distinctly Gatsby-esque image of the main character stretching out his arms towards his desires. I think the motion itself portrays a sense felt in both stories--of stretching and reaching out, persistently trying but ultimately unable to grasp the dreams in the distance. This dream for Gatsby is to win over Daisy, but though Bodega shares a similar dream he also desires to see the Latino population thrive and rise from its circumstances. The fact that he reaches towards the renovated buildings may be an indicator of this. So unlike Gatsby, Bodega did have multiple aspirations in life, but maybe his motivation to cause social change was solely to gain a name so widely and openly renowned that Vera would take notice and be impressed. Therefore, it's possible all Bodega's efforts can be attributed (or at least partially so) to his pursuit of Vera and this quote connects both ideas since it’s described he had reached out similarly when showing the buildings to Vera.
-Carolyn (maiorana)
"No one but Bodega and Nazario, who loved that tired piece of land just off the East River. They would rebuild it, repaint it, adn watch as others stepped back, looked at it, and pulled their har in dismay. 'This was always a beautiful place. Why couldn't we see that before?'" (161).
I found this quote to be interesting because it really showed the passion and determination that Bodega and Nazario had. Yet, in his thoughts, Chino realizes taht it can be beautiful on its own, BECAUSE it's its own. Chino understands what Bodega and Nazario are doing but he does not necessarily want to be a part of it because he feels that once they are gone, Spanish Harlem will remain as is, and thats good enough for him.
-Krystle D.
"It's important for me to rememver that night, because once I heard that name it was never about Blanca or Sapo. As important as they were to me, it was always about Bodega. We were all insignificant, dwarfed by what his dream meant to Spanish Harlem," (19).
This quote is a fantastic representation of what life is like in Spanish Harlem. People are so poor that they will go as far as to forget their loved ones to acheive a better livingstyle for them. Bodega is thinking big and everybody is going along with it, dreaming, because it is nice to dream of great things, but in truth nothing will be achieved if we put the people we love in the past and just think into the future.
Eric L
"'Thats why we never see her. She married well. Some rich Cuban she met. They live in Miami' That rang a faint bell."
Even though this is a tiny, seemingly insignificant quote, I remembered reading this while reflecting on the Gatsby post. So much was written on how Vera and Daisy are the same person from two different worlds, and this quote reinforces those statements. Daisy, in Gatsby, only half-heartedly married to Tom Buchanan, mostly for financial benefits. Never is her background mentioned nor does she ever talk about her family, giving the reader the appearance that she is 'forgotten'. Interestingly enough, the parelells continue between Bodega and Gatsby, with the characterization of Vera. Vera seemingly evaded her Latin roots and married into Cuban wealth for social status. Quinonez writes 'That rang a faint bell,' almost letting the reader on a little secret, a little bell is ringing from F. Scott Fitzgerald's notebook. Vera and Daisy continue to be classified as the same person with these small details.
alex putnam
"Tomorrow Spanish Harlen would run faster, fly higher, strectch out its arms farther, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings. The neighborhood sensed this, and in my dream the peopl were jumping, shaking, and jamming as if the rednt weren't due for six months. Like Iris Chacon inside a washing machine during an earthquake, Richter scale 8.9. There was salsa and beer for all. The neighborhood might have been down, but it was far from out. Its people far from defeat. They had been bounced all ober the place but they were still jamming." (213)
I think this is a good quote to wrap up the book. Not only because it is the last paragraph of the novel, but because it embodies what this story was about, the dreams of something bigger and better. The whole time, Chino and Blanca were struggling to get better jobs and Bodega is struggling to make his life better by rekindling his love with Vera. Both of these hopes are optimistic dreams, and they seem far fetched, but they are not entirely un-plausible. Here at the end, with all the talk of the Spanish Harlem one day seeing a brighter life, it just seems to fit the whole message of the story.
~Alyssa
"Don't you wee what's happening? A new language means a new race. Spanglish is the future. It's a new language being born out of the ashes of two cultures clashing with each other...Words that arent't English or Spanish but at the same time are both." (212)
Although at times I had questioned the idea and practices of Bodega, Chinto's dream made me a believer of its effectiveness. At times, especially at the very beginning of book 2,it seemed as though Bodega was trying to form some type of big brother communist village that he was brainwashing. After his death, its clear that his legacy was positive, no matter what his real intentions were. He brought hope and unity back into the community, something it did not previously have. This quote demonstrates the true effect that his actions had. He brought the whites and hispanics together adn gave them the opportunity to succeed, something Sapo and Chino did not have while growing up.
-Joe D
"He shot him.Listen' he said coldly,'we had to lay all the blame on Willie, because Willie was already dead. Understand?''Iunderstand. When was heshot?''on his way to give himself up''For Vera?''Yes' (197)
This was one of my favoritequotes in the entire book. WIlli has dedicated his life for Vera and then on his way to sacrfice himself to her he was killed. This was an amazing quote for me because it showd how this man spent hiswhole life on something and his pay day never came.
Matthew Fitch
"Willie Bodega don't sell rocks. Willie Bodega sells dreams." (33)
To me this was the most memorable quotes from the first half of the story. i though that it really showed how Bodega's true vision. I also found it a little funny. The quote most reminded me of Frank Lucas from American Gangster. But all of that aside, it shows that Bodega is doing what is necessary in his mind to brighten up his ghetto, full fill his vision, and give his people a fighting chance in the world.
-Will
***SPOILERSSS***
"As always Latino kills Latino, we'll always be a little people" (159).
This quote shows just how much Nazario actually cares about Bodega's dream, lifting Spanish Harlem out of the slums and making a name for themselves. Nazario talks philosophically of Latinos killing Latinos, when ironically he shoots Bodega so he can pursue his own goal: Vera. Bodega is truly seen as a martyr with the murals painted depicting him as angel with a halo. Cool book.
that was bowen
"The way a picture that's been hanging on a wall for years leaves a shadow of light behind, Bodega had kicked the door down and left a green light of hope for everyone."
I like chose this quote for several reasons. The first is that it does an excellent job of describing what Bodega did for the community. The second is that is cleverly written. The first part metaphorically describes what Bodega has done for East Harlem. The second part is a clear reference to the green light that symbolized Gatsby's hope for being with Daisy again.
--Scott Hagen
"It once held the soul of Willie Bodega. so the people had taken to the streets, but in honor, not anger." 208)
This quote demonstrates the impact that Bodega had on Spanish Harlem. He may not have changed the city or the World like had hoped, but he changed the lives of thousands struggling Spanish immigrants. He also showed people what was possible with a little ingenuity and luck. Willie Bodega left behind a legacy of a man of vision, and more importantly an idea, and an idea never dies.
-Will
"I hate towers. The taller the building, the more people you place on top of one another, the higher the crime rate. They're mammoth filing cabinets of human lives, like bees in a honeycomb, crowded and angry at paying rent for boxes that resemble prison cells" (70).
I think that this passage is incredibly interesting. Chino is looking at a forty-story building and is able to develop amazingly true connections, downplaying the building. Looking at a building through Chino's perspective gave me a different type of insight into the idea of a skyscraper. An apartment building is very similar to a filing cabinet, with each person assigned to a certain number. I really like the writing style here and how well the building is described in terms that I would have never thought of before.
Jenna Williams
"tell him," Bodega almost whispered, "tell him you never loved him. Tell him you're staying with me."
Vera looked at Bodega as if the suggestion was innapropriate. As if affairs were all right just as long as they were kept in the dark.
"William," she cried. "I'm leaving him, isn't that enough?"(189)
I found that this quote reminded me so much of The Great Gastby. Bodega seemed kind of desperate when he was telling Vera to tell John all this, and I thought Gatsby was the same way. He was desperate for Daisy, and would do anything for her, just like Bodega, who even takes blame for the death of John. He will do anything for Vera, and it seems as though he was desperate to have her.
-Eric H
"Hey Willie," I said as I was about to walk out the door. "I think you're worth all the souls in hell. Thass thousands more souls there are in heaven. So you're worth a lot, pana," (193).
This quote stuck out to me because it shows that Chino is a good guy at heart and deserves more credit than he's given. I also liked that Bodega got this satisfaction in his life. I always felt bad for him, especially in the end because he just got screwed over. This would be something I would remember if I was Bodega. Just a simple compliment. And it also made me laugh a little, just because I feel like Chino is right. There is probably a lot more souls in hell than there are in heaven.
-Kelsey L.
"So you have a nice car and make good money, but Bodega, Bodega is the Man. Bodega has made a name for himself. You know about names, Sapo. When you get one it's only a matter of time before you have to prove who you are. And Bodega has the biggest name in the neighborhood."
.......(continues a little farther down the page)
"It's such a big name that it's only a matter of time before someone will wan a slice he won't wanna give up." (41)
This passage really emphasizes the importance of characters' names in Bodega Dreams. It seems as though names are crucial to identifying a person and their significance in El Barrio. Because "Bodega is the man", he has the most important name and plays a very significant part in the society. Sapo, in addition to Bodega, earns a good amount of money and has a luxurious car, yet Bodega still has the upper hand over Sapo, and is more popular among his community SIMPLY because of his name. It seems as though in the real world it is more common for people to be well known because of their luxuries and money, however in Bodega Dreams, it is the actual name that classifies a persons significance. This also relates to the Great Gatsby with Jay Gatsby.
As Maryam mentioned above, on page four it mentions the "coolness" of having a nickname, if you don't have one than you are "useless, meaningless thing". It also sates that if you didn't have a nick name then you hadn't found your true identity, or proved yourself, and were opening up a chance for anyone to kick your ass.
-Brooke Kemper
"When you see that, then you will understand why the Americans wanted it and called it Manifest Destiny and not what it really was, theft." (160)
I picked this passage because I thought it showed the ideals behind Nazario and Bodega in a way that kind of makes sense. They want to make a fortune, live the good life, a legal life and he's comparing what they're doing to the early days of American history, where NAtive Americans were driven out of their land, and that land was taken by the people of the original 13 colonies. Nazario is saying to Chino that the only way to become rich and legal is starting with things illegally and working your way up. That's really interesting and unique to me so that's why I chose that passage.
Eric Wu
"It's a beautiful new language. Don't you see what's happening? A new language means a new race. Spanglish is the future. It's a new language being born out of the ashes of two cultures clashing with each other. You will use a new language. Words that they might not teach you in college. Words that arent't English or Spanish but at the same time are both." (212)
This passage really emphasizes the differences and similarities of the English and Spanish culture. I believe that this quote really ties together the ending of the book. Many controversies and conflicts occur between American and Hispanic people because the hispanic race is not always looked highly upon. From this quote, we can see that the actions Bodega took were significant to affecting and changing the relationship between whites and hispanics. They were finally able to connect with one another and become united and succeed. This was a new opportunity for Sapo and Chino that they were not exposed to and could not experience while growing up. By the end of the story, it is easy to see that after Bodega's death, his position and role in society left a positive affect among the people.
-brooke kemper
"'The guys she really loved, his name was Edwin Nazario. You Julio,' she said, talking like her sister, 'have been played." (200)
I'm not sure why this passage stood out as very important, but I just think that it represents that novel as a whole. It gives the truth of the novel "bodega dreams" and I liked how Quinonez saved it until page 200. I was not at all expecting Vera and Naziro to be the ones going for each other, but as Chino pieced together all the parts of the puzzle, it ended up making a lot of sense. It was just one of those "wow" moments, which ocurred a lot throghout the novel, but this one stood out to me the most. When Blanca was telling Chino that he'd been played, it reminded me of the show punk'd, where they tell the guests in the show that they have been punk'd. I just thought it was so funny when Blanca told Chino that. The quote was definetly significant to the story.
~Maryam Semenov
"I shot him," Bodega said, making sure Vera didn't hear anything, "You understand me, Chino?"
I nodded, but right then I knew Bodega was lost... When he looked at me that night, his face still had that radiant look, that well-focused beam that couldn't miss its target. But miss it, it would." (192)
I chose this quote because it helped me to pause and recollect my thoughts after such an intense event. Bodega trusted in Chino, and Chino later gave him compliments and his respect. I kind of felt bad for Bodega, but knowing that he still remained "radiant" and strong was good to know. Also, after reading this quote, I was reminded of Gatsby. Gatsby always seemed to keep his composure, and stay calm after major events... like when Myrtle was hit by the car. This is connected to Bodega in that he has just shot someone, but within minutes remains relatively calm and content.
--Laura Hundley
" I nodded, but right then i knew Bodega was lost. His dreams about the neighborhood had been too close to his love for Vera. incestuous cousins that had no right getting involved. WHen he looked at me that night, his face still had that radiant look, that well-focused beam that couldn't miss his target. But miss it, it would"(192). This is the time for me when i really realized that Bodega was in fact human, with human flaws. It is very powerful when coupled with CHino's first description of Willie's gaze. Willie is no longer omnipotent. He is just another man that does not know what to do with his life. It is also the point where it is decided that Willie's life has no meaning. he has spent it on two causes that have little hope of succeeding.
-Cameron
Bodega had kicked the door down and left a green light of hope for everyone. He had represented the limitless possibilities in us all by living this life, striving for those dreams that seemed to elude the neighborhood year after year
this quote is like what the entire end of the book boils down to really, like the fact that one man could try so hard, and break all the rules and just generally go against the grain for what he believes in, thats what the book is about. Bodega didnt want to hurt anyone, he wanted to help everyone, but when people got in the way, things went wrong. But the R.I.P.'s all around the city show that Bodega had it right from the start.
"She said she loved me. She said that she didn't care if i didn;t have any money. The problem was, she said, i didnt have any vision on how to get it. She said she wouldn't mind being poor for a few years, but since i only had vision for political stuff, that i was going to be poor for the rest of my life"(79) This is the point where i first begin to question willie's judgement. How can he say these things and not question Vera's affection. it also starts to bind willie's dream of freeing spanish harlem and his dream of marrying vera, and that is when things go horribly wrong. the two dreams are different, and no matter how many times he tries to beat the system, it is proven that he cannot have both.
-Cameron
"People remember you as someone who tried to make the neighborhood a better place. And that's good. Ans now they see yo'r in school and that's good too,..just remember bro, that no matter how much you learn, no matter how many books you read, how many degrees you get, in the end, you are from East Harlem." (36)
I though this was interesting because it really demonstrates how no matter how hard you try you will always be attached to where you grew up and your heritage. It also is important because it causes Chino to rethink how he was always trying to change himself so that he could leave and go somewhere better. After Bodega says this to him the idea of fixing up where he's from, and not trying to leave, starts to seem more appealing.
-rhian
"I tried to empty my mind, but I still couldn't sleep. The refrigerator hummed loudly, like a Buddhist on crack." (183)
I'm sorry both quotes I chose where not that meaningful but I absoulutely loved Quinonez's writing style (and the book in general). His style made the book; there was not a dull moment in it. I chose this passage because it is an example of the similies he commonly uses to further portray his ideas. Like I said previously, he talks to you straight up; his similies are unique yet amazingly affective. I mean, who doesn't know what a cracked out buddhist sounds like? ...well, obviously we don't but regardless, I still know the exact sound that refrigerator was making.
-Jacob B.
"I fixed up my pillow and began to read. It was a book I had once loved and carried around with me, but I knew the real reason I was reading 'The Stranger' wasn't because I wanted to drift back into the past. It was simpler than that. I was afraid and missed Blanca. And when you've been with someone for a long time and they leave you, the saddest part is turning off the lights." (183)
Not only do I think this quote is absolutely BEAUTIFUL, but it holds so much in just a few sentences. It's obvious that only after Blanca leaves does he realize how much he loves her. He never wanted her to leave, but continued his business understanding that he was lying to her. This is significant because it kind of leads him into telling her the truth, but moreso, Sapo tells him that if he helps Bodega again, then they'll get on Blanca mother's good side which will influence Blanca's choice to come back to Chino. I also do not think the title 'The Stranger' was randomly used, because this distance between him and his wife makes him feel as though his lying had turned him into a different person, one he does not recognize. This quote shows that the true Chino is still alive and is willing to do whatever it takes to get Blanca back.
"East Harlem ha no business being in this rich city but there it was, filled with broken promises of a better life, dating decades back to the day when many Puerto Ricans and Latinos gathered their bags and carried their dreams on their backs and arrived in America, God's country. But they would never see God's face. Like all slumlords, God lived in the suburbs" (161).
This passage struck me for a number of reasons- I loved the imagery Quinonez used to describe the hope and idealism embodied in the immigrants, and the contrast between that hopefulness and the reality of the distance between the dream and the truth. The idea that God is such a con man, inspiring false hope so much he could be a slumlord, is a very unconventional analogy. The dissociation between God and the people he is supposed to care for is similar to that of a slumlord- far away and unconcerned with the situation of others while sitting so far away.
-Christina
“I know I was to be the link between Bodega And Vera. I was determined to fulfill my part of the deal, once Bodega and Vera met I was completely free. I would sever all ties to bodega.” (97)
This quote shows how Chino really did not want to be involved with Bodega. It was at this point that Bodega had just offered him a new home for Chino and Blanca to live in. With the baby on the way, Chino found it hard to say no. This quote not only points out how much Chino wants to be free of Bodega but it also proves his love for Blanca. He wants to have a family that lives in a nice home. Chino seems to be a little mixed up on how to achieve this dream however his intentions were good and it shows his love for Blanca effectively
~Lauren Bowker
"I wanted to tell him it was crazy. But then I thought, why not? Why not us? Others have dreams, why not us? It was from that moment on that I realized all these hopes were bigger than me, more important than any one person. If these dreams would take off, El Barrio would [be] proud for decades" (106).
I love this quote because I think this is finally the moment where Chino realizes what Bodega and Nazario have been trying to explain to him all along. Chino is realizing that he can actually make a name for himself, not because he's a drug lord, but because he can dream, and his dreams will come true. Bodega has been trying to instill this ideas in Latinos his whole life, and it's working. El Barrio will change and become a better place because Bodega has created a mindset for the Latinos that their dreams can become a reality.
- Katie C
"I could already see that Nazario was a chameleon. He had the uncanny ability to be stoically cold under pressure and extremely warm with the people...It was Nazario who, by blending his education with politeness, had made himself be looked upon with love, respect, and a little fear throughout the neighborhood. His smile could be magically disarming but his head was crowded with practicality and genius." (98)
This quote was really interesting to me because it basically explained Nazario in a nutshell, which is a very hard thing to do for such a complex character. But it really gave me a sense of what Nazario was all about. Simply calling him a "chameleon" lets me in on the fact that Nazario is street smart and can change his game plan accordingly in order to get what he wants. And thats his gift- he knows exactly how to get what he wants. He has a certain intimidation that he knows how to use against people. And he's respected for that power of manipulation he has over people. Another thing is that even though he's bodega's assistant, its nazario who calls the shots.
an example of how he can manipulate is when he made himself seem like a hero after the fire, because he was assuring everyone he would find new place for everyone to live and he and bodega would make sure everyone got through the terrible tragedy, when in reality it was his fault.
-Shay
"Spanglish is the future. It's a new language born out of the ashes of two cultures clashing each other. You will use a new language...words that aren't English or Spanish but at the same time are both" (212).
I found this quote, which was from Chino's dream at the end, to be interesting and important. It shows the hope that will come with the future. And how Chino does not have to choose either the main-stream white culture or his Spanish heritage, he can be part of both simultaneously. This quote is also important because it shows the possibility of how cultures could begin to mix and in the future they might not be so separated and different.
-Rhian
"The only reason the mugger robs you is because he doesn't have access to the books. If he did, he'd be a lawyer" (103).
I found this line to be very interesting. To see a criminal committing a crime based on what they have access to, and what he doesn't have access to is what he lacks. A robber is not a lawyer because he doesn't have books to study from, but he can rob you because he has that access.
Jenna Williams
"You can stay with me. I have an extra room" (211).
This offer clearly marks a turning point in Julio's life. He has been inspired by the difference Bodega has made in Spanish Harlem. He doesn't want to get into all of the drugs, although it may make him rich. He just wants to do simple things which can improve his community. He hopes to live a less extreme version of Bodega's idealism. I think that this offering underscores Quinonez' message that we need to be good to one another. Most of us can't pay for our neighbor's college education, but there are little things we can do to help others. Whether we are trying to save the world or our neighborhood, we can only accomplish big things by doing nice things.
- Kelley S.
" the guy she really loved, his name was edwin nazario. you, julio have been played"
i was shocked when i read this. how could all of this happen? it was so interesting to find out in the last couple of pages that alot of stuff has been a lie. and before i said i liked nazario for trying to help the people. but now i dont like him at all! i see now that bodega was the good one he was the one truelly trying to make spanish harlem better.
kristen scopetski
"Tomorrow Spanish Harlen would run faster, fly higher, strectch out its arms farther, and one day those dreams would carry its people to new beginnings." (213)
so clearly this quote was incredibly significant. its about the dreams and the legacy Bodega left behind and how his dream lives on and there's always optimism for a better future (and the book is TITLED "Bodega Dreams" for heaven sakes!). Like alyssa said, it was a great way to wrap up the story, because thats what it was about- getting to somewhere better off than where they were. Ane even though Bodega died and had a funeral in the end of the book (much like The Great Gatsby, as Eric pointed out), this quote shows that Bodega's hope didnt die with him.
-Shay
"'Look around, Julio. Every time someone makes a million dollars, he kills some part of the world. That part has been us for so long, and it will continue unless we fight back. The day will come when, just like the white guy, we will also steal by signing the right papers.'" (159)
I think the quote by Nazario is significant because it exemplifies so much of what Bodega's empire is based on. There are so many conflicting interests within his plans because he wants so badly to make the neighborhood better, but only knows how to do so through crime. What Nazario realizes however, is that this is life. This is how one succeeds in getting what he or she wants, by committing crime. He realizes that you cannot gain one thing without losing another, and he's tired of his culture losing so much and gaining nothing.
--Jillian Pellegrini
"no one is perfect, Julio." she didn't appreciate my comment. "the church is full of imperfect people. Noah was a drunk, but god gave him the ark. david committed adultery with Bathsheba but god made him king. Peter denied Christ, but god - " (62)
THis quote really interests me because its a strange yet intriguing quote states to show how no one is perfect. it really caught my attention, and shows how the characters accept their imperfections, and know that no matter how many imperfections they have, they can still get though life and be successful just like anyone else.
"a slum that has been handed down from immigrant to immigrant, like used clothing worn and reworn, stitched and restitched by different ethnic groups who continue to pass it on” (161)
THis quote was talking about the Spanish Harlem, and it really interested me because it talked about how this culture that everyone grows up in gets handed down over and over again. however, it is not what gets passed down culturally, but how the culture gets molded by the different people that take it in, creating different lifestyles as the years go on.
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