“Motorcycle Ride on the Sea of Tranquility” is written by Patricia Santana and describes the life of a family living in Southern California with poignant sensitivity and beauty. This is a story about love and pain, family unity, and the tension that arises from the desire of its members for independence. The time described in the work refers to the military events in Vietnam; 1969 is when the beloved of the four brothers of Yolanda, Chuy, returns. The Sahagun family prepares for the arrival of a brother, son, and friend from the war, throwing a party; when Chui finally arrives, it becomes evident that he is not the same person anymore. The situation described is vital and should be discussed, as it touches on the problem of veterans, people who returned from the war, and the hidden struggle of mental health.
The problems considered in the novel are relevant throughout all times since mankind has not yet managed to find a way to resolve issues peacefully. Unfortunately, wars cannot be excluded from the life of society. The first chapter describes a person who returned from the war, whose life will no longer be the same because it was radically changed by the war and the events in which they took part. The moment Chuy found the family dancing and singing, “quietly staring, his face was stern and disapproving” (Santana, 2013, p. 7). Taking part in a war is traumatic for the human psyche, for some to a greater extent for others to a lesser one, but it is impossible to remain the same. Therefore, it is essential to discuss and inform people that war is a terrible event and not the best way to resolve issues.
In conclusion, this book can be recommended for reading, because everyone will find something for themselves that responds. Since the problem of war’s traumatic consequences is not the only one in the work, it is relevant and can show the vices of society and, in particular, the family in the described events. By concluding what one has read, it is possible to avoid repeating some mistakes in real life.
Reference
Santana, P. (2013). Motorcycle ride on the sea of tranquility. University of New Mexico Press.