The main idea of the poem "Jacket" by Gary Soto is the author's reflection on his childhood experiences wearing a patched jacket. The poem explores themes of social class, poverty, and the desire for acceptance and belonging. Soto recalls how his mother repaired his old jackets, making them look presentable even though they were worn and threadbare.
He also remembers how his peers made fun of him for his patched jackets, which made him feel ashamed and isolated. However, Soto ultimately comes to appreciate his mother's efforts and the lessons he learned from his struggles. The poem celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of family and community.