Exile By Michael Baca Analysis

523 Words2 Pages

Telling his experiences from prison, Baca illustrates how language changed his life. Before, Baca did not “know how to read” and his “inarticulateness increased [his] sense of jeopardy.” Unable “to express [himself],” Baca was held on suspicion of murder when he denied explaining a deep cut on his forearm. Despite the harsh prison situation, Baca felt “freedom.” Language was the “magic that could liberate” him from himself, “transform [him]” into another person, and “transport [him]” to other places far from reality. Previously unable to express his terrors, Baca was able to “share his grief and joy” with others through language. As a result, Baca gained confidence. He was no longer a “captive of demons” or a “victim of other people’s mockery.” He was now “free” to “respond, escape, and indulge.” Reading and writing enabled the author to tolerate the severe mental and physical abuses in jail. He not only overcame the difficulties but also improved himself. Having the ability to voice his opinions, Baca was no longer “different from others.” Language “made bridges of fire” between him and everything he saw. …show more content…

Baca indicates the “blood and carting plastic bags stuffed with arms, legs, and hands” in order to highlight how he was able to find a constructive factor in such a gruesome environment. The usage of metaphors allows readers to visualize the injustice and leaves an acrimonious taste as if the readers are in Baca’s position. In addition, Baca’s choice of words such as “unspeakable terrors” and “brutalities of my life” creates an overall dark tone. Despite the gloomy atmosphere of the book, Baca utilizes humor. The instance when he had only twenty-six cents from his pickets when the judge hit him with a “million dollar bail” to empty his pocket evokes mild

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