The problem of cultural adaptation is extremely complicated. In several situations immigrants are forced to question their original belief system due to the pressure of their new environment. Elias Miguel Munoz and Omar S. Castaneda's essays in Muy Macho capture two interesting aspects of the internal warfare that occurs within the common immigrant. Both essays analyze the effect of American society on the image of the macho. However, Munoz is grappling with a second generation crisis; while Castaneda's essay is interested in the feelings of first-generation immigrants. In other words, as Munoz confronts his macho father, from whom he feels disconnected; Castaneda faces his own cultural identity. Yet they seem to arrive at different conclusions: the passage from “From the land of machos” underlines the shortcomings in maintaining certain traits and customs; while the “Guatemalan macho oratory” shows signs of pride in macho identity. My experience as an immigrant in the United States has led me to think that American society is extremely materialistic. As a result, many immigrants find themselves in a losing position, since most of them do not belong to the upper classes. In reaction, some immigrants turn to using a more physical communication strategy. This is what led to the downfall of the macho image in the American environment. It is money that fights physical force and this war divides the immigrant population into a sort of “Munozes” and “Castanedas”. Perhaps the golden path lies in balancing obedience and individuality. If the two behaviors were not considered exclusive, overcoming both types could prove useful. The part of the immigrant population that shares Munoz's point of view believes that Macho is im...... middle of paper ......bility for their failure towards the American population. As noted above, capitalism rewards both the Munozes and the Castanedas, regardless of the difference in the communication styles they represent. The key to effective adaptation may lie in the capacity for adoption. However, this requires in-depth knowledge of the cultural context. Ultimately, without knowledge, the immigrant may fail to understand the American's motivations and vice versa. Yet their lives today are already so interdependent that it means healthy communication is definitely a requirement for social success. Works Cited1. Munoz, Elias Miguel. "From the Land of Machos: Trip to Oz with My Father." Very macho. Ed. Ray González. New York: Doubleday, 1996. Print.2. Castaneda, Omar S.. "Guatemalan Macho Oratory." Very macho. Ed. Ray González. New York: Doubleday, 1996. Print.