Which problems that the characters deal with could be eliminated or prevented through political solutions or changes? Which problems do you think would exist regardless of political and social factors?

Which problems that the characters deal with could be eliminated or prevented through political solutions or changes? Which problems do you think would exist regardless of political and social factors?

One of the things that I thought the book did well was to show how intertwined the personal and political really were in all the characters' stories. Arguably many or even all of the problems the characters faced could have been prevented through political solutions or changes, but of course the dilemma lingering behind that is the way in which personal prejudices prevent adequate political support for such solutions: For example, in Jeanette's case, many people still see addiction as a moral failing, which discourages viewing it as a public health issue, and that perspective tends to lead to legislation (and lack thereof) that leaves people who struggle with addiction with fewer resources and less support.

I think there may be some intentional irony in the last sentence of Chapter 10, describing Carmen's relationship with Dolores: "She would think it was politics that had divided her from her firstborn daughter." Because again, arguably, you can easily trace Dolores murdering her husband to political factors, if only general ones such as the lack of power she held as a woman.

I believe that Jeanette's addiction would still be her problem regardless of any political influence. Whether it is a character flaw or economic situation, an abuse situation or rebellion it is a weakness within an individual - often a coping mechanism for something else. But no laws or legislation will ever prevent a person from becoming addicted if they so desire.