Critical Essay on The Myth of the Latin Woman: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria

Introduction

Judith Ortiz Cofer's essay "The Myth of the Latin Woman" reveals some of the stereotypes Americans have about Latinas. Cofer recounts some of the times that her Latina status made her the centre of attention. She was first put on the spot by a London bus ride. She recalls the moment a young man approached her and began to recite, imitating a tenor's "Maria" from West Side Story.

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According to the author, she realized that her Hispanic appearance would be with her everywhere she went. This is sometimes a good thing. However, it can be a very good thing for some people. Cofer writes that her Hispanic heritage was an integral part of her life. Her family spoke Spanish and ate Puerto Rican cuisine. She also practiced strict Catholicism.

Cofer relates how embarrassed she felt when she wore something different to others at a party hosted by American friends. Cofer recalls the "Career Day" in high school when a teacher instructed the class to dress up as if they were going for an interview. Cofer points out that Puerto Rican girls were often portrayed as negative models for their excessive jewelry and accessories. Cofer also states that advertisers and media portray Latin American women as "Hot Tamale", or sexual hotshots. She demonstrates that the way the girls [Puerto Rican] dress is a result of other women from the island.

Cofer shares another instance in which her Latin features were once more prominent. Cofer relates that a young man approached her in a hotel and said, "Evita!" He then began to recite "Don't let me Argentina cry!" She explains that her education helped her to deal with these kinds of situations. She recognizes that this was not the case for Latinas with poor English skills and menial jobs.

Cofer's last mention of an incident took place at a boat-restaurant. An old woman mistakenly thought she was a waitress when she asked for a cup of coffee on the day of her first public poetry reading. She admits that she has been able to overcome the more severe forms of racial and ethnic prejudices many Hispanics face. She concludes her article by saying that she wants to see Latinos treated differently than equivocal stereotypes.