Many times in life we observe the actions of our parents to determine our own paths.  We use what they show us as guidelines in our pursuits.  Sometimes, what we witness may not necessarily determine our path, but it may inflict pain or confusion into our lives.  A conflict between parents can cause a child to question his beliefs or evaluate everything he experienced in a negative way.  A conflict between parents can make a child's life more difficult and take away his childhood.  Such is the case with Antonio Marès, in Bless Me Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya.

The differences between Antonio's parents deeply affect his outlook on life.  The opposing views of his mother, Maria Luna y Marès, and of his father, Gabriel Marès are profound and...