The poem "The Latin Deli: An Ars Poetica" serves as both a tribute to cultural roots and a reflection on the immigrant experience. Ortiz Cofer encapsulates the deli as a poetic symbol, offering a haven of nostalgia and identity for Spanish-speaking immigrants. Through vivid imagery and symbolic references, the poem explores the role of the deli and its owner in preserving cultural heritage.

Introduction to the Poem

"The Latin Deli: An Ars Poetica" subtly hints at the art of poetry through its title, drawing from Horace's and MacLeish's works. Ortiz Cofer's depiction of the deli not only lends poetic significance to the place but also reflects the essence of cultural identity it provides to its patrons. As the poem opens The Latin Deli collection, it sets the tone for stories that explore the lives and experiences of Spanish immigrants, offering them solace and a sense of belonging.

The Patroness of Exiles

In the initial lines, Ortiz Cofer unveils the central figure of her poem—the "Patroness of Exiles." This character, revealed after a depiction of the deli's setting, embodies the deep connection the immigrants have with their homeland. The "ancient register" and "plastic Mother and Child magnet" perched on the Formica counter encapsulate the duality of economic struggle and spiritual resilience. These objects serve as poignant reminders of the rich cultural and religious heritage that the deli-goers carry with them, creating a comforting refuge amid their new surroundings.

A Haven for Cultural Conversations

With her understated introduction, the poem's owner becomes an omnipresent figure in the community, a "woman of no-age" who symbolizes the collective identity of deli proprietors in ethnic areas. She dedicates her days to "selling canned memories," playing the role of an empathetic listener to customers who voice their struggles and nostalgia. Through their interactions, the deli transforms into a place where the past and present coexist, allowing patrons to momentarily escape the challenges of their immigrant lives.

Diverse Voices and Shared Dreams

The poem weaves through the disparate voices and aspirations of its visitors, capturing the spectrum of immigrant experiences. Puerto Ricans lament the high costs, while Cubans hold onto dreams of returning to Havana. Mexicans, in their quest for success, "pass through" with lyrical discussions of "dólares." The internal rhyme throughout this section highlights the rhythm of their hopes and the shared cultural ties that bind them together.

Maternal Comfort and Cultural Reflection

Returning to the owner, Ortiz Cofer illustrates how her mere presence provides a maternal anchor for the immigrants. Her physical portrayal—"plain wide face" and "ample bosom"—exudes warmth and familiarity, as customers see her as a living embodiment of their family portraits. Here, their interactions with her become a reaffirmation of their identity, a reminder of the cultural tapestry they are woven into.

Memory and Language

The owner’s "understanding" smiles, coupled with the recitation of Spanish labels, evoke memories of childhood and lost times. The poetic use of alliteration—"labels," "aloud," "lost," "lovers"—creates a soothing auditory experience that resonates with the comfort of familiar sounds. In the aisles of the deli, language becomes a bridge to the past, a tool to kindle cherished memories and reinforce cultural bonds.

A Sacred Duty

In the poem's concluding lines, Ortiz Cofer highlights the owner's meticulous care in wrapping orders, underscoring her pivotal role in her customers' lives. While the deli's offerings may be pricier than those at mainstream supermarkets, for these immigrants, the cost is a small price for the connection and understanding they find there. The act of shopping becomes a ritual, a way to maintain cultural identity amid the erosion of assimilation.

Preserving Identity Through Ritual