If we have experienced it directly, it tends to influence our writing in a positive way. That being said, we and our readers are able to reveal why we chose that underlying topic or message in the sonnet. Benjamin Alire Saenz grew up on a farm in Mesilla, New Mexico. Growing up, he spent most of his life in New Mexico. After venturing out and leaving his native home, he moved to Texas and served as a priest for a few years. Knowing that Saenz grew up in the hot desert of New Mexico and his history of a religious role in a church gave him the inspiration to write this poem. People who enjoy reading his literary work understand why he chose the desert and the message is about the existence of a spiritual connection and desire for God. After understanding and getting to know the author a little better, it helps a high school student like me to perceive the important poem in terms of poetry.