Grachelle Anne Ho 12-ABM-AA

J. Kylene Lumusad

Lexie Mae Schall

Mia Carla Tabasa

Bonsai by Edith Tiempo

1. Who is the persona/speaker?

The poem's persona is about someone who treasures the little things that
hold memories or value to them. That treasure can be passed down and shared
with the next generations to learn about the meaning and purpose of the object
that symbolizes a story, memory, and their love for something or someone.

2. What is happening in the poem?

The poem depicts the speaker's indescribable feelings for their precious
little one and their significant interpretations of love. There were mentions of
how the smallest objects and details they bring out portray their sign of love yet
bear an immense value. No size or time can measure a person's love and
devotion for someone as long they bring meaning to it and show their dedication
to them.

3. How does the poem reconcile the paradox of keeping love “for the moment
and all time, both” and “scaling love and life down to a cupped hand’s size”?
What metaphors are used to signify meaning?
The poem lists random little items that symbolize the love that carries
memories and values, which can be kept in the smallest of pockets. These items
are a metaphor for scaling love and life down to a smaller size, to be treasured
during the moment and hand down to the next generations when the time
comes. Thus, it is similar to a bonsai tree as it cannot be cared for by one person
 alone but rather to be nurtured thoroughly by every person passed on down
throughout its years until the day it withers and till the day the 'seashells are
broken pieces.'

4. Why is the poem entitled “Bonsai”?

The poem does not describe a bonsai tree's characteristics but somewhat
its representation of love as a lesson in the poem. The poem is entitled "bonsai"
since it contains a profound meaning that love includes small things in our life
that makes us happy, and those things are treasured forever. Love is just like a
bonsai when well-maintained due to continuous care and patience; it would last
long and pass through many generations.