T.C. Boyle’s inspiration for writing “The Tortilla Curtain” was multifaceted, drawing from both personal experiences and broader social issues. The novel is set in Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles County, an area familiar to Boyle, which influenced his decision to write about it. The book addresses the complex issue of immigration, particularly in the context of California’s Proposition 187, a bill that denied certain social benefits to illegal immigrants. Boyle was motivated by the political climate and societal debates surrounding immigration at the time, although he emphasizes that he did not have a preconceived position when he began writing.

Boyle also draws inspiration from literary sources. He uses a quotation from John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath” as an epigraph, reflecting on how the ethos of the 1930s applies to contemporary issues. However, he clarifies that he was not attempting to rewrite Steinbeck but rather explore similar themes in a modern context.

The title “The Tortilla Curtain” itself is symbolic, referring to the Mexican border and evoking images of barriers and divisions. Boyle uses this metaphor to explore themes of separation and exclusion within American society. His approach to writing is described as a process of discovery, where he combines hypothetical elements to explore his own feelings and perspectives on the issues at hand.

Immigration and the American Dream
The novel contrasts the struggles of illegal Mexican immigrants Candido and America trying to achieve the American Dream with the privileged lives of wealthy Americans Delaney and Kyra. It highlights the harsh realities and exploitation faced by undocumented immigrants in their pursuit of a better life. The "tortilla curtain" itself symbolizes the divide between these two worlds.

Racism and Xenophobia
Boyle examines the racism, prejudices, and fear (xenophobia) that many Americans harbor towards Mexican immigrants, viewing them as a threat to their way of life. The novel exposes the hypocrisy of professing liberal values while still exhibiting racist attitudes.

Social Class and Inequality
The stark divide between the upper-middle class whites and the impoverished Mexican immigrants lays bare the deep economic inequalities in American society. Their conflicting worldviews and access to resources are shaped by their social class.

Human vs Nature Conflict
The novel juxtaposes the pristine gated community of Arroyo Blanco with the harsh natural environment of the canyon where the immigrants live. This explores humanity's complex relationship with nature and the desire to control the wilderness.

Gender Roles
Boyle contrasts the more progressive gender roles of Delaney and Kyra with the traditional machismo attitudes of Candido towards his wife America working.

In essence, The Tortilla Curtain provides a nuanced critique of the American Dream and exposes the nation's struggles with immigration, racism, inequality, and environmental issues.

Many readers and critics praise the novel for its incisive social commentary.

Boyle's writing style is often lauded for its vivid descriptions and engaging prose. His ability to create tension and evoke emotion adds depth to the story and keeps readers invested in the narrative.

Some critics argue that Boyle's portrayal of characters, particularly the Mexican immigrants, relies on stereotypes and lacks nuance. This has led to discussions about whether the novel reinforces certain prejudices rather than dismantling them.

The novel's bleak portrayal of the American Dream and the harsh realities faced by immigrants can be seen as overly pessimistic. Some readers feel that the lack of hope or resolution might detract from the overall message.

While the social issues addressed in the book are compelling, some readers find the plot to be uneven and the pacing slow at times. This can affect the overall readability and engagement with the story.

Overall, "The Tortilla Curtain" remains a significant work in contemporary American literature, valued for its ambitious exploration of timely and relevant social issues despite some criticisms regarding its execution.