In the short story “Lost in New Mexico” by Susan Power, the protagonist, a Native American woman named Linda, is driving through New Mexico on her way to visit her father. Along the way, she becomes lost and disoriented, both physically and emotionally. As she drives through the unfamiliar landscape, she recalls memories of her childhood, her relationships with her family, and her cultural identity.
The story explores themes of identity, culture, and family as Linda grapples with her sense of self and her place in the world. The landscape of New Mexico serves as a reflection of Linda’s internal struggles, mirroring the vastness and emptiness she feels within herself.
As she navigates the winding roads and shifting landscapes of New Mexico, Linda is forced to confront her past and come to terms with the choices she has made in her life. The story delves into Linda’s complex relationship with her family, particularly her father, and the impact of cultural displacement on her sense of belonging.
In the end, Linda finds herself at a crossroads, unsure of where she belongs or where her journey will take her next. The story captures the feeling of being lost and adrift, both physically and emotionally, and explores the process of self-discovery and reconciliation.