The Breath of Sparrow

by Jim Pascual Agustin

for Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela

So it has arrived, the news

of your departure. Last night
I dreamt I was in the house
of my mentor, as a frequent guest
who took a desk by the window.

A towering tree with red

and yellow flowers as big as hands,
the breeze slipping between each
petal finger. I went to his room
to ask the name of that tree.

He lay on his bed, resting

with eyes closed but aware
of the birds weighing down
the branches, leaves caressing
the roof. the breath of sparrows

like his own. there was no need to name

the tree, no need to name anything
at all at that moment. I bid him thanks
before leaving, my footsteps drowning
In sparrow wings.

SELF-CHECK/EVALUATION
1. What textual evidence can you cite in the first stanza to indicate that the poem refers
to the historic death of Nelson Mandela?

2. The speaker dreams of his professor after the news on Mandela’s death reaches him.
Describe the dramatic situation of the speaker’s dream sequence by citing details.

3. Apart from the professor, the speaker mentions the image of a tree seen from the
window at the house of the professor. How does it function as an important image in
the poem?

4. Why do you think naming the tree important for the speaker?
5. How does the impact of the news on Mandela’s death affect the way the speaker
values the presence of his professor?

6. With the value and reverence the speaker gives the professor, including as well as the
comparison he makes between the professor and the breath of sparrows, describe how
Mandela’s contribution is affirmed and valorized in African society.

7. How do South Africa and the Philippines share experiences and history?

8. What can we learn from Mandela and South African history that could be applied in
the Philippines?