Eleven

Sandra Cisneros’s background and past work provide significant context for “Eleven.” Indeed, Cisneros is known for taking inspiration from her own culture, background, and life experiences. This is true of Woman Hollering Creek and Other Stories, the short story collection in which “Eleven” first appeared. Though the book is not autobiographical, its themes are informed by the author’s personal experiences. Cisneros is part of a Mexican American family, the third of seven siblings and the only girl. Her brothers formed a unit from which she felt excluded, and her father referred to his children as “six sons and a daughter,” reinforcing her perception of herself as an outsider. This self-perception was bolstered by the family’s frequent moves; they spent considerable time migrating between Mexico City and Chicago, never spending too long in either place, which meant Cisneros was constantly changing schools. These factors made for a lonely and isolated childhood, which is reflected in Rachel, who finds no support or community in her peers. This theme of isolation in “Eleven” is further enriched by its discussion of family. Rachel’s family does not actually appear within this story. Their physical absence, contrasted with the important standing they have for Rachel emotionally, showcases how coming of age means learning to stand alone, which is doubly true of immigrant children who must navigate between multiple cultures.