Comparative Essay - In the Skin of a Lion and Like Water for Chocolate

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Comparative Essay – In the Skin of a Lion and Like Water for Chocolate – “An individual’s development is often entwined with a search for identity.”

Ashneet Singh

493 629

Mrs. Snowden

ENG3U8 – F

Word Count: 889

Throughout time, man has struggled far and wide trying to find an identity in this world

in order to contribute to society. In the two novels, In the Skin of a Lion, and Like Water for

Chocolate, both authors portray the development of one’s character through the distinct search

for one’s identity by shining light on the isolated lives of central characters, such as Patrick

Lewis and Tita De La Garza, respectively.

        Central characters in both novels are portrayed as isolated from society, or from family,

thus showing the struggle in their search for identity. Michael Ondaatje introduces Patrick as a

blank canvas, having no position in society. Patrick’s father, Hazen Lewis, “did not teach him

anything, no legend, no base of theory. The boy watched him […] pack equipment neatly back

into his wooden case.” (18 Ondaatje) Patrick becomes isolated from society by obtaining no

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form of education; however his knowledge is built upon learning from silent observation and

listening to others. Being isolated from society causes Patrick to lack the communication skills

required to interact with people. “[…] but he wants conversation – the language of damsel flies

who need something to translate their breath the way he uses the ocarina to give himself voice,

something to leap with over the wall of this place.” (10) Patrick wants to communicate and find

his true identity in society, however he lacks the voice required to do so. Similarly, Laura

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