Quote: "My father says that a man should never cry. He says that crying is a sign of weakness. I do not believe him. I have seen him cry." (from the chapter "Marin")
Explanation:
* Hyperbole: This statement is an exaggeration. While the father might have expressed that men shouldn't cry, it's highly unlikely he never cried in his life. The narrator uses this exaggeration to highlight the contrast between her father's words and his actions, revealing his vulnerability and the complexity of his character.
Why this is an effective hyperbole:
* Irony: The hyperbole creates a sense of irony, highlighting the disconnect between what the father preaches and what he actually does.
* Emotional Impact: It makes the reader question the father's beliefs and emphasizes the hypocrisy of his stance.
* Character Development: It reveals the narrator's own independent thinking and her ability to see through the facades of those around her.
This is just one example, and there are many more instances of hyperbole throughout *The House on Mango Street*. Sandra Cisneros uses this literary device to enhance the storytelling, add humor, and reveal deeper truths about the characters and their experiences.