The story takes place in a Puerto Rican tenement known as El Building in Paterson, New Jersey.
The narrative begins with the environment described as musically vibrant but falls silent on the day President Kennedy is assassinated.
El Building is located at the corner of Straight and Market streets.
Themes and Symbolism
Cultural Identity: The residents of El Building, primarily Puerto Rican immigrants, are depicted as trying to retain their culture amidst their new environment.
Isolation and Belonging: The protagonist, Elena, experiences feelings of alienation in her school and community.
Dreams and Aspirations: References to Puerto Rico and future potential reflect the dreams of the immigrant community.
Discrimination and Prejudice: Eugene's mother embodies racial and class prejudice.
Characters
Elena: A young Puerto Rican girl, the protagonist, who is dealing with feelings of alienation and young love.
Eugene: Elena’s neighbor, a boy from Georgia whom she admires and befriends.
Mr. DePalma: The science teacher and disciplinarian at P.S. 13 who announces Kennedy's death.
Eugene's Mother: A red-headed nurse who discourages the friendship between Elena and Eugene due to racial prejudice.
Elena's Mother: Anxious and protective, concerned about Elena's infatuation and social standing.
Plot Summary
Prologue: The silence in El Building on the day of Kennedy's assassination signifies the gravity of the event for the residents.
School Life: Elena describes the challenges and cultural tensions at her school, including interactions with classmates and teachers.
Eugene's Family: Elena observes Eugene's family, contrasting them with the previous Jewish residents.
Young Love: Elena develops an attraction to Eugene, seeing him as a source of beauty and light.
Cultural and Racial Barriers: Despite her feelings for Eugene, Elena faces rejection from his mother due to racial and class prejudice.
Kennedy's Assassination: Elena learns about the assassination of President Kennedy, witnessing the collective grief.
Key Events
Playground Scene: Elena faces teasing from classmates during P.E., illustrating her feelings of alienation.
Meeting Eugene: Elena finally speaks to Eugene, marking the beginning of their friendship.
Eugene’s Mother’s Rejection: Elena is turned away by Eugene's mother, reflecting societal barriers.
President Kennedy's Death: The event casts a shadow over the community, affecting everyone’s demeanor.
Important Imagery
El Building: Represents both community and confinement.
Eugene’s House: Symbol of hope and different social status.
Snow: The snow at the end symbolizes purity and change, possibly representing Elena's loss of innocence.
Conclusion
Personal Reflection: The story closes with Elena reflecting on her personal loss and the broader community mourning for President Kennedy, symbolizing a shared, yet individual sense of grief.