Here's a summary:
The story follows the narrator, a young Filipino man who immigrated to the United States seeking a better life. He faces relentless prejudice and discrimination, which manifest in various forms, including low wages, poor living conditions, and constant fear of violence.
He works long hours in back-breaking labor, but is constantly exploited and denied basic human dignity. The narrator experiences the harsh reality of being considered an outsider, facing hostility and even threats from both white workers and his own countrymen who compete for scarce opportunities.
Despite the overwhelming hardships, the narrator holds onto a flicker of hope, fueled by his dream of a future where he can contribute to society and find acceptance. He clings to the idea of America as a land of opportunity, even as he witnesses the cruel realities that contradict this ideal.
The story's climax comes when the narrator is arrested and unjustly imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. This experience shatters his remaining hope and leaves him feeling betrayed by a country that promised him a better life.
"My Tragedy" is a powerful testament to the struggles faced by Filipino immigrants during this period. It highlights the systemic racism, economic inequality, and social injustice that permeated American society. Through the narrator's personal journey, Bulosan exposes the brutal realities of the "American Dream" for marginalized groups, leaving readers with a sense of deep empathy for the plight of the protagonist and the enduring legacy of discrimination.