"DĂez in the Desert" is deeply affected by the border crossing experience, as it portrays the difficulties, anxieties, and tragedies faced by individuals attempting to cross the border between Mexico and the United States. The short story by Rosario Castellanos sheds light on the impact of this migratory journey on the protagonist, DĂez, as well as the broader consequences it has on people's lives.
One way the border crossing experience affects DĂez is by exposing him to extreme physical and emotional hardship. Throughout the story, DĂez and his companions endure exhaustion, dehydration, and hunger as they wander through the unforgiving desert. This experience fundamentally alters their physical capabilities and leaves them vulnerable to life-threatening conditions. For instance, Castellanos depicts DĂez's body gradually deteriorating under the scorching sun, with his lips parched and his feet blistered and bleeding. By illustrating these details, the author highlights the toll the border crossing takes on the characters.
Beyond physical turmoil, the border crossing also impacts DĂez psychologically. Castellanos delves into DĂez's mental state, capturing his oscillations between hope and despair. As the group progresses, their dreams of reaching America clash with their increasing fears of getting caught by border patrol agents or dying in the desert. DĂez internalizes these anxieties, questioning whether freedom and a better life in the United States are still worth pursuing. For example, he contemplates whether returning home to Mexico, while possibly seen as a failure, may grant him safety and stability. These internal struggles exemplify how the border crossing leaves a lasting mark on DĂez's psyche.
Furthermore, the boarder crossing experience in "DĂez in the Desert" has broader consequences on individuals and their families. When DĂez's companion, LeĂłn, fails to make it across the border and dies in the desert, his family back in Mexico is left in a state of mourning and uncertainty. The story emphasizes the devastating consequences of failed border crossings, illustrating the heartbreaking impact on families who have lost loved ones in their pursuit of a better life.
Overall, "DĂez in the Desert" portrays how the border crossing experience affects individuals like DĂez on physical, emotional, and psychological levels. It illustrates the hardships faced during the journey, the toll it takes on individuals' mental well-being, and the devastating consequences it can have for families involved.