One of the main themes in 'born worker' is the concept of hard work and its significance. The characters in the story are shown to have different attitudes towards work. For example, José is presented as someone who has a natural inclination towards hard work, which is perhaps where the title 'born worker' comes from. He takes pride in his work and has a sense of responsibility.
In 'Born Worker', one of the main themes is the value of work. The protagonist's journey shows how work can shape a person's identity. He starts off just doing manual labor but through his experiences, he begins to understand his own capabilities and place in the world. It also touches on the idea of social class as he is a 'worker' and has to deal with different expectations compared to others.
José seems to be a character with a strong sense of self - worth that is tied to his work. He doesn't shy away from physical labor and is dedicated to doing a good job. His character is also shaped by his family or cultural background which instills in him the value of work. The other characters around him add depth to the story by either complementing or conflicting with his work - centered nature.
In 'Black Hair', Gary Soto might be using the description of black hair to evoke emotions. It could represent beauty, pride, or perhaps a sense of otherness. For example, if the character is in a different cultural setting, the black hair could make them stand out and face unique experiences related to that.
I would recommend 'The No - Guitar Blues'. It's a great story to start with as it has relatable characters and a simple yet engaging plot. It gives a good taste of Soto's writing style.
The 'born worker short story' might explore themes like social class and the nature of work from birth. It could show how a person's background can shape their view of work and their place in society. For example, it might depict characters who are born into a working - class family and how they struggle or adapt to the circumstances of their birth.
The 'born worker' short story could potentially focus on the experiences of workers from the start of their lives. It might depict how family background, social environment, or personal traits influence one's journey as a worker. For example, it could tell the story of a character who grows up in a family of laborers and has to face various challenges and opportunities in the world of work.
One common theme is the experience of growing up. Gary Soto often writes about the challenges and joys of adolescence. Another theme is the importance of family. His stories might show the relationships within a family, like the love and conflicts between parents and children. Also, the concept of identity is there. Characters in his short stories often struggle to figure out who they are in different situations.
I'm not sure exactly how many memoir short stories Gary Soto has written. You might need to check his official bibliography or literary databases for a precise count.