Julia Alvarez's "Daughter of Invention" relates to society because it explores the nature of cultural conflicts that occur often in families who have immigrated to America from other countries.  In the story, Cukita's family is from the Dominican Republic, and the parents of course still believe in the importance of the values from their home country.  Cukita, on the other hand, is in school and tries to assimilate into her class so that she can make friends and follow lessons.  This dynamic causes much conflict because the parents do not have the same need to "fit in" as their daughter does, yet Cukita does not understand her parents' desire to hold on to elements of their culture.  Situations like this are prevalent in society, so Alvarez's story speaks as one example of what happens in society.