Coming of Age Theme in Parrot in the Oven Essay Example

What is coming of age? Coming of age is the process of maturing from a child into an adult. Every young person during adolescence goes through this process as they begin to age. A notable book about coming of age is Parrot in the Oven, written by Victor Martinez. In the book, the main character and narrator, Manny Hernandez, is coming of age because he learns how to be hardworking and independent by making his own decisions.

The first reason that shows Manny is coming of age is that he wants to take financial responsibility through hard work. Responsibility is a quality that is heavily needed in adulthood because it shows other people that you are trustworthy and are of good character. According to chapter 1, in Parrot in the Oven, states, “School was starting soon, and I needed money for clothes and paper stuff… I decided to stir up Nardo to see if he’d go pick chili peppers with me” (7). Although Manny knew it would be difficult, he was determined to work in the chili fields, which shows that he is learning to work for himself. This shows Manny’s resolve to take accountability for himself and his needs. It’s clear that Manny is becoming a considerably responsible and hardworking teenager.

In addition, another event that shows how Manny is coming of age is when Manny displays independence by watching over someone. Independence is essential in adulthood because it you are not only capable of taking care of yourself, but eventually other people as well. On chapter 6, of Parrot in the Oven, Manny states, “…Since Mom was at Grandma’s putting things away, and Dad was again at Rico’s, [Magda] got me to stay home and babysit Pedi” (93). By taking care of Pedi in place of Magda, Manny shows how he can be reliable, along with being dependable enough to be left alone. In summary, Manny matures by independently looking after his younger sister.

Lastly, Manny matures by making his own choices without the influence of others. Being able to make your own choices is important as an adult because it helps you stay in control of your life.  On chapter 9, of Parrot in the Oven, it states, “You’re going to get in trouble, you know that? If I was you, I wouldn’t go to that party.” [Magda] warned. “Well, you’re not me” (173). Despite his siblings’ pressure and disapproval, Manny decides to ignore them and go to the party. This example shows how Manny can decide things for himself, even if he is faced with other’s contrasting beliefs and judgements. Overall, Manny expresses that he can make his own decisions.

Consequently, the idea and process of coming of age varies everyone, but it still shares the same outcome. For Manny Hernandez, in Parrot in the Oven, he goes through the process of coming of age by learning to endure the hardships of responsibility and independence. Because of different events and experiences, Manny becomes more reliable, hardworking, and decisive. All in all, coming of age is an inevitable process. Everyone starts off on an uneasy path like Manny, but there will always be positive changes along the road that will help guide the transition from childhood into adulthood.