The Welfare System

The welfare system is an important part of life for the people of Manuel's neighborhood. His father adamantly refuses to take a welfare job, saying it puts him in their debt. His pride is also at work here because he doesn't want anyone else to think that his family needs to be on welfare, despite the fact that many in their neighborhood are dependent on welfare in some form.

Useful Blood

This is a term Manny uses to describe his grandfather's attitude about work. The term indicates a drive to perform useful tasks. Manny says that his grandfather always worked hard. When his mind and body broke down, he still roamed around the house, fixing anything that caught his attention. Manny feels this same need to be doing something constructive.

The Rifle

There is a gun owned by Manny's father that Mr. Hernandez uses...