House on Mango Street Chp. 44-47 (pg. 103-110) THE END

The Three Sisters and Esperanza's Journey

Introduction to the Three Sisters

• The narrative introduces three sisters, described with ethereal qualities, who seem disconnected from reality yet are tied to the moon. Each sister possesses unique traits: laughter, cat-like eyes, and porcelain hands.

The Baby's Illness and Death

• A dog’s cry precedes a yellow bird entering through an open window, foreshadowing tragedy. The baby’s fever worsens until Jesus takes the child away, as told by their mother.

Visitors and Mourning Rituals

• Many visitors come to see the deceased baby in a box resembling candy. The narrator reflects on her first experience with death in such an intimate setting, noting the oddity of it all.

Interaction with the Sisters

• The sisters engage with Esperanza, offering comfort and wisdom. They sense her uniqueness and encourage her to make a wish, emphasizing that wishes can come true if believed.

A Call to Remember One's Roots

• One sister advises Esperanza to always return for those who cannot leave easily. This moment highlights themes of identity and belonging as she reassures Esperanza of her roots.

Alicia's Perspective on Home

Friendship Between Alicia and Esperanza

• Alicia listens empathetically as Esperanza expresses feelings of shame about not having a home. Their friendship is marked by shared experiences of longing for belonging.

Discontent with Current Living Situation

• Despite living at 4006 Mango Street, Esperanza feels out of place and ashamed. She yearns for a true home rather than just a house or apartment.

Dreams of an Ideal Home

• Esperanza dreams vividly about owning her own house—one that is quiet and personal—contrasting sharply with her current living conditions filled with garbage and noise.

Reflections on Identity

Storytelling as Escape

• Esperanza finds solace in storytelling; she imagines narratives that reflect her life journey while trudging up stairs toward a house she dislikes.

Memories of Past Residences

• She recounts previous homes before Mango Street—Lumis, Keeler, Polina—emphasizing how these memories shape her identity despite feeling like an outsider in each place.