The Elephant In The Room

Throughout the novel, a recurring motif is the ripple effect, wherein a single action sets off a chain reaction of both intended and unintended outcomes. This section delves into the motif by showcasing the unexpected consequences of seemingly minor alterations in the characters' lives.

The most significant shift is Gio's purchase of Veda. However, this purchase triggers a flood of other transformations. The formation of Veda's dung pile physically embodies the ripple effect motif. When Mateo and Sila consolidate Veda's waste and relocate it behind the barn, they do so under the premise that "organizational correctness" requires this action. However, consolidating the excrement creates a focal point for insect activity. These insects, in turn, attract birds, which gather around the mound. The presence of birds and insects draws other wildlife, including possums, raccoons, hawks, and even a cougar. Moreover, the seeds within Veda's waste germinate, giving rise to plants that further entice diverse wildlife. "Yeasts, smuts, mildews, molds, and mushrooms spring forth" (172), completing the complex web of ecological interdependence all from gathering waste into one place.

Another example of the ripple effect in action is Sila's spontaneous invitation for Mateo to meet Veda. Despite her initial regret when Rosa agrees to let Mateo join them, Sila deepens her understanding of him when they spend time together at the farm, fostering empathy and strengthening their bond of friendship. Sila realizes that Mateo's quirks, like his preference for tuna fish or occasional restlessness, pale in comparison to his genuine support and non-judgmental demeanor. The narrator notes, “[H]e was standing there at her side listening to her make her case, and she wanted to be a caring person. What difference did make if he only wanted tuna fish for lunch or if he kicked the back of her seat? He didn't ever judge what she did" (143). This newfound empathy and connection lead to both securing a summer job and solidifying their friendship, emphasizing the theme of The Role of Empathy in Cultivating Relationships. Though the friendship initially took root through the pairing program, their connection with Veda solidifies it. Introducing Mateo to Veda sets off a chain of events where Sila encounters Rosa, who will play a significant role in the unfolding narrative. Venturing to the farm alongside Sila allows Mateo and Sila to deepen their understanding of each other, nurturing their burgeoning friendship.

As the school year draws to a close, Mateo reflects, "This school year had been different. Sila was his friend. Having a friend was a very scary thing because a friend could turn on you […] He was worried about that now" (177). Mateo's past apprehensions about forging connections with others resurface, yet Sila's consistent behavior encourages him to trust her, demonstrating the importance of Overcoming Isolation Through Family and Community Bonds. Despite his concerns about potential betrayal, Sila's actions inspire Mateo to break down his barriers and strive for a genuine relationship with her. Contemplating the shift, Mateo muses, "He was different from a lot of kids and he hadn't changed in that room in the library. But Sila's attitude toward him had" (178). Sila's changing perspective marks just one facet of the ripple effect set in motion by their interactions.

Furthermore, the summer job opportunity for Sila and Mateo serves as yet another manifestation of the ripple effect. Mateo's observation of the scattered dung prompts a suggestion to consolidate it, which ultimately leads to monetary compensation from Gio. This financial incentive prompts Sila to propose the idea of summer employment to her skeptical father, sparking a pivotal conversation wherein Sila challenges Alp's pervasive anxiety stemming from Oya's deportation. This exchange marks a turning point in their relationship, compelling Alp to reassess his approach to parental guidance in light of Sila's growing independence. Beyond this consequence, working for Gio allows Sila to earn money to help Oya return from Turkey, easing some of Sila's guilt as she blames herself for Oya's deportation. 

In employing the motif of the ripple effect, Sloan illuminates the far-reaching ramifications of seemingly insignificant actions. From the aggregation of dung to the forging of unexpected friendships, each ripple reverberates throughout the narrative, precipitating substantial transformations for Sila and those in her life.