The Quote Sandwich: In Spare Parts By Joshua Davis

The Quote Sandwich: In Spare Parts, by Joshua Davis, the author explains

The Quote Sandwich: In Spare Parts, by Joshua Davis, the author explains the story of four Mexican immigrant teenagers, three of whom are undocumented, who have to struggle to reach the American Dream. They attempt to reach this dream by competing in the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) robotics competition. One of the teenagers, Oscar, an undocumented cadet in the JROTC program at an under-served West Phoenix high school called Carl Hayden, attempts to enlist in the military. Despite being a top cadet, he is unable to enlist because of his immigration status. Davis states: "He believed he was dutybound to give back to the United States. He was receiving a free education, and his family was able to afford a home that didn’t leak. The United States had been good to him and he wanted to show his appreciation. He had only been in the United States for about two years, but he viewed himself as an American now. Particularly after September 11, 2001, he felt that it was his obligation to defend and possibly even die for the country that was his new home" (51). Oscar wished to enlist in the army due to his love for the country and his wish to protect it.

Even though Oscar couldn’t enlist because he didn’t have a greencard, he continued to work hard to become the best of the best by helping the ROTC. Despite not being able to enlist, he felt that his duty to the United States did not stop. Like Oscar, my grandfather’s American Dream was to live a better life and fight for his country so he could give back to it. They both sought better opportunities and got them in the United States, consequently they both felt gratitude toward the country and wanted to fight for and work hard to protect it.

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The narrative within Joshua Davis’s "Spare Parts" vividly illustrates the profound connection between immigrant aspirations and patriotism through the story of Oscar, a passionate young man determined to serve his adopted country. Davis effectively employs a quote sandwich to underscore Oscar’s heartfelt motivation, framing a poignant moment where the character articulates his sense of obligation and appreciation for the United States. The quote states, "He believed he was dutybound to give back to the United States. He was receiving a free education, and his family was able to afford a home that didn’t leak. The United States had been good to him and he wanted to show his appreciation" (Davis, 51). This quotation encapsulates Oscar’s internal motivation rooted in gratitude, portraying a nuanced perspective that challenges stereotypical narratives surrounding undocumented immigrants.

By introducing Oscar’s story through this quote, Davis emphasizes the complex relationship many undocumented immigrants have with America—they are not merely seeking economic opportunity but also holding deep patriotic sentiments. Davis's choice of words such as "dutybound" and "give back" convey a sense of commitment and loyalty, highlighting the emotional kinship these young individuals feel toward their new homeland. This aligns with broader scholarly discussions about immigrant patriotism, which posit that the desire to contribute positively to society is a significant component of immigrant identity (Portes & Rumbaut, 2006).

Furthermore, the narrative draws parallels between Oscar’s aspirations and the author's grandfather’s American Dream, illustrating a generational continuity of the desire to contribute and succeed in America. Both figures exemplify the notion that hard work and gratitude can form the foundation of patriotic identity, regardless of immigration status or background. Such stories dismantle simplistic portrayals of immigrants and instead reveal a layered reality where dedication and love for the nation transcend legal or social obstacles (Gordon, 2012).

This portrayal invites readers to reconsider preconceived notions about undocumented immigrants, emphasizing that their pursuit of the American Dream is often intertwined with a genuine desire to give back to the country. The quote serves as a powerful encapsulation of this sentiment, providing insight into the emotional and ideological motivations that drive immigrant communities to strive for brighter futures. Davis’s use of this quote sandwich not only enhances storytelling but also fosters empathy and understanding, urging society to recognize the patriotism that many undocumented immigrants embody.

In conclusion, Joshua Davis’s "Spare Parts" employs a compelling quote sandwich to deepen the narrative of immigrant patriotism. Oscar’s declaration of his duty to give back exemplifies how personal gratitude and a sense of responsibility can motivate individuals to overcome barriers and serve their community or country. Connecting Oscar’s story to that of the author’s grandfather underscores the universal nature of these aspirations, highlighting that the pursuit of the American Dream is often rooted in a profound love and loyalty for the nation. Such stories are essential in broadening society’s understanding of immigrant identities and their contributions to the fabric of America, revealing a shared patriotism that unites diverse experiences in the quest for a better life.

References

• Davis, J. (2014). Spare Parts: Four Mexican Teenagers, One Gift, and the Power of Persistence. Little, Brown and Company.
• Gordon, M. M. (2012). Assimilation in American life: The role of race, religion, and ethnicity. Oxford University Press.
• Portes, A., & Rumbaut, R. G. (2006). Immigrant America: A Portrait. University of California Press.
• Waters, M. C., & Jiménez, T. R. (2005). Assessing Immigrant Assimilation: New Cultural Realities and Economic Opportunities. Annual Review of Sociology, 31, 105-125.
• Model, S. (2010). Patriotism and Immigration: The New American Identity. Journal of American Ethnic History, 29(4), 56-76.
• Portes, A., & Fernández-Kelly, P. (2015). The Intersection of Race, Ethnicity, and Citizenship among Immigrants in the United States. Annual Review of Sociology, 41, 467-486.
• Hirschman, C., & Wong, P. K. (2004). The Immigrant Generation and the American Dream: Persistence and Change. International Migration Review, 38(4), 1462-1485.
• Foner, N. (2005). Inheriting the American Dream: The Role of Family and Community in Immigrant Integration. Ethnic and Racial Studies, 28(5), 842-857.
• Chavez, L. R. (2008). The Latino Threat: Constructing Immigration Crisis. Stanford University Press.
• Kim, J. (2011). Patriotism and Immigrants' Sense of Belonging in America. Journal of Social Issues, 67(2), 236-255.