The Daughter of Invention

When the Garcías arrive in America, they must decide how to relate to Spanish, their native language. Language—speaking it, writing it—is a primary way to articulate identity to others. Navigating bilingualism—in this case, speaking both Spanish and English—looks different for Carlos, Laura, and Yoyo in “Daughter of Invention.” The way each character makes decisions about their use of English or Spanish reveals the particular challenges they each face in inventing their identities in America.

Laura commits to speaking English, though “her English was a mishmash of mixed-up idioms and sayings that showed she was ‘green behind the ears,’ as she called it” (245). Her communication is a blend of English and Spanish, and when speaking in English, her communication is limited to sayings and idioms, as opposed to language she crafts herself. Additionally, her daughters often correct her mix-ups. Laura’s bilingualism reflects a sense of her being “in-between” Spanish and English and not quite clear in either. She remains connected to the traditions and values of their Dominican life while also eagerly exploring the possibilities of their life in America. Yoyo, on the other hand, finds authenticity and power in her use of English. When writing her poetry, she writes in English, indicating that even in the private parts of her identity, she uses the language of this new life.