The Difficulties of Emigration

Although leaving Cuba during the 1955 revolution was a healthy move on Carmelita's part, it is obvious that the transition from the country where she was born and raised was not an easy one. In her play, "Milk of Amnesia," Carmelita is suffering from a severe case of amnesia. She can remember nothing about Cuba or her childhood.

In hopes of sparking her memory, Carmelita visits Cuba. When she discovers her childhood home, the wonderful memories of her childhood come rushing back to her. This episode is told metaphorically to represents how her indoctrination to American culture and society had blurred the vision of her homeland. There is disappointment when she observes the poor, hungry people of modern Cuba but she wonders if her perception and expectations had been distorted by her years in America.

Carmelita portrays an aspect of American culture in "Chicas 2000." In response...