J.E. 3A

Cultural schizophrenia is a topic that relates to me on various different levels. Growing up in Orange, the city was a physical representation of the divide between my Mexican-origin background and my “American” background. My taste in music was a huge way in which I would express these identities, specifically in regards to language. I enjoyed Spanish music because my parent’s brought me up while playing music that they enjoyed when they were young and by virtue of growing up in the States, English songs, primarily that from the African diaspora people such as rap, jazz, R&B etc. were constantly on my playlist.  I would identify with the passions and struggles narrated by the music originating from these pools of artists and therefore became a part of my identity. Of course growing up, I did not have the language to express my emotions, but now that I’m reflecting I can name it. Another thing that I can point to would be the influence of language. I would rarely use Spanish outside of my household i.e. my parents and would therefore not practice it often. My passion for Spanish music helped ground my proficiency in Spanish and to this day is the main “class” I take to correct my ability. I would say I have “come to terms” with my Mexican and American identity through the beautiful artistry of musical artists. Of course it still continues to this day, I have a much more solidified grounding of my identity.