Junto Al Pasig

Generally, the one-act play zarzuela by Jose Rizal entitled, “Junto Al Pasig” highlights the theme of
Christianism versus Paganism (good vs. evil) which was depicted by Leonido, a young Filipino man who
possesses a strong faith in Virgin Mary, and Satan, the evil one, who was dressed as a Diwata.
Throughout the entire story, the main character, Leonido, remained steadfast and faithful to what he
believes in despite being lured upon by the so-called ‘Diwata’ which we should also apply in our daily
lives whenever we are being tempted by the devil. That said, the message of the story wanted us to
realize what should we really believe in, who should we believe in, and what should we not believe in,
given the fact that we are Christians. Just like what Leonido had shown, we should always keep our faith
in Him, as well, although we face adverse events and situations in our lives. Moreover, the story also
tries to oppose the idea of Paganism, an act of worshipping other gods or holding religious beliefs other
than what Christ had instituted, as it contradicts one of the Ten Commandments of Christ which states
that we should not have other gods beside Him.

Bienvenido Lumbera

Since then, corruption in our country has been very prevalent which creates an adverse impact on our
economy’s growth and the society at large. That said, Bienvenido Lumbera, wanted to attack those
politicians who participate in such greedy actions indirectly through his poem, “The Eulogy of Roaches”.
Through the use of his pen and paper, he valiantly took a stand against these corrupt practices which
makes the poor people get even poorer and rich people get even richer as they syphon off funds and
deprive people from getting the benefits of growth that are rightfully theirs. Moreover, he stressed out
how unfair life is especially when these ‘roaches’ use their power and authority not to serve the people,
but solely for their own benefit. Generally, this poem depicts how our country is being wasted because
of these dishonest government officials we've been electing every election. That said, at some point, this
poem could also serve as an eye-opener for us that we should not be blinded by these corrupt
politicians; instead, we should be brave, use our voice, and take a stand against this unlawful act just like
what Bienvenido Lumbera did.

Common

Based on my observation, most of the literary works discussed in the class mirror the realities of life as
they all appeal to the minds and senses of people especially in today’s generation. Their lessons and
messages are very relevant and timely as they mostly address social issues in our country; for example,
graft and corruption in the “Eulogy of Roaches”, child molestation in “Magnificence”, human right
violations in “Prometheus Unbound” and even the basic netiquettes and standards of living which was
shown in “Urbana at Feliza”. Aside from that, each one of them reflects the situations or events that
transpired during the period they were created. Moreover, the authors of each literary works also had
their own style of writing which have brought us to certain life realizations as these narratives served as
an eye-opener for us that there are still a lot of things that we aren’t aware of. Hence, most of these
narratives used literary elements such as symbolisms, themes, and a variety of styles which made them
very notable and interesting to people of all ages. Overall, I could say that these works are, indeed, great
examples of literature in our generation as they are all eternal, original, and they have touched the core
of our lives as they reflect the real lives of people.

True Decalogue

 1-3 about God and ourselves

4-8 about our country and its development
9-10 about our neighbors and countrymen

Paradox - statement that contradicts itself but if we understand it deeper, it implies an essential truth or
message. “I know that I know nothing.”

 The Social Network

 Interstellar (Technoculture, Minimalism
 Hello World
 Space Between Us
 Jurassic Park
 Divergent
 About Time
 Life of Pi (Magic Realism, Minimalism, Metafiction
 Don Quixote (Realism, Metafiction, Historical Metafiction)

Fabulation

 Maleficent
 Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
 The Wizard of Oz
 The Hobbit
 Lord of the Rings
 A Wrinkle in Time

Magic Realism

 Anime: Detective Conan (most of the cases are realistic, he is also confronted by characters like
witches)
 Pan’s Labyrinth (The fantastic elements serve as a parallel to the harsh realist setting she lives
in.)
Metafiction

 Zombieland
 Enola Holmes
 Don Quixote http://ronaldbrichardson.com/metafiction/top-twenty-one-metafictional-works-
the-story-that-swallows-its-tale/

Pastiche

 The Simpsons – South Park (American animated sitcom) halos parehas sila ng characters at
elements

Historiographic Metafiction

 Midnight’s Children

Technoculture

 Tomorrowland
 Avatar
 RoboCop

Minimalism

 Flash Fiction

Intertextuality

 Merchant of Venice

1. Do for a living
- He runs a mini stall po wherein he sells fruits and eggs contained in a basket or made up of
cardboards.

2. Why do neighbors tease him?

- Because he keeps on visiting the woman even though he does not get anything in return.
They told him po na even though he is an old man, he is never too old if he will put his mind
to it.
3. Why is he not living with his wife?
 - He is not living with his wife because she is already married to someone else, which is his
brother, and they also live in one roof na po so it would be a shame if he would still live with
his wife.

4. When is the story set?

- IDK

5. Where was he taken by the press gangs?

- Press-gangs drag him out of his house po and they took him to the army camp wherein he
had been on the march for years.

6. How did he manage to escape?

- He made multiple attempts po to run away in the army camp wherein he had kept on
walking day and night tas sometimes po halos wala na siyang tulog tas parang he have been
on the road na po for a month or a year.

7. What did he discover?

- He found out po na his wife had married another man already which is his older brother
kase daw po his brother couldn't afford to keep her and thought that he was dead. His ex-
wife po went with him because she hopes for a better life.

8. Why was his wife?

- His wife po has married another man because she wants to have a better life tas they’ve
thought din po na Xinjiang was already dead.

9. What are the positive characteristics of XinJiang?

- He is very positive and resilient po because even though his own wife and older brother
betrayed him, he still visits them and parang he doesn’t hold any grudge at them at all po.
Tas sab inga po, he just accepts whatever life throws at him. He just goes with the flow and
he continues to go on with his life.
- He has a sense of contentment in his life po because even though he lives in poverty, he still
sees the good in things. For example po, yung sa chopping board niya po. He was glad po
that he didn’t change it even though it was really old because it became lighter compared to
the ones used by other people. Tas the ancient things that he own po are cannot be found in
the market anymore so he was glad that he owns one.

10. Poverty
 - Yes po because at the latter part of the story, it shows how simple his life is but he still sees
the good in things and how he was blessed with such things. For example po, yung sa
chopping board niya po. He was glad po that he didn’t change it even though it was really
old because it became lighter compared to the ones used by other people. Tas the ancient
things that he own po are cannot be found in the market anymore so he was glad that he
owns one

11. Contented with house

- Even though his house was very small po because it keeps him out of the wind and the rain
and he is glad that he lives alone and away from other people because there was no one to
pester him with questions which really distresses him.

12. Philosophy in life.

- Throughout his life po, he just takes whatever life throws at him, may it be a good or bad
thing. Even though he has been through a lot in life tas he lives in poverty pa po, he still
looks at the bright side of life and he enjoys things the way it is.

Among the literary techniques in post modernism, which do you think is the most prevalent or most
commonly used in most novels or movies? Cite examples of works that contain them and explain how
the technique has been used. *

Literature from the period of post modernism has diverted from the conventional way of writing which
is very evident in its plot, style, theme, and the techniques used. Given the fact that science fiction has
become the most prevalent genre in this period, I think the technique that was mostly employed by
authors in their writings is magic realism which involves combining magical and realistic elements in a
story. A great example of this technique is a fantasy film written by Guillermo del Toro which is entitled
as “Pan's Labyrinth”. In this story, the main character was exposed with the horrors of both reality and
fantasy blended together to unleash the rich imagination and fierce belief of the protagonist’s vision.
The fantastic elements presented in this film served as a parallel to the harsh realist setting she lives in
wherein she was thrown to the world of civil war during the Spanish colonization. As such, it usually
tackled about real-world social and political problems. Hence, it has also triggered the imagination of
people in a deep way due to its theme and multiple scenes which are extremely unrealistic as a way of
transforming these social realities. Aside from that, the very popular fantasy novel of J. K. Rowling,
“Harry Potter”, may also be considered as magical realism as it merges magic with reality through the
use of metaphor and most of the fantastical elements used are placed in a real setting. That said, the use
of magic realism allows authors to expose relevant social realities in an extraordinary way through the
use of fantastic and magical elements that would really astonish and challenge the imagination of
people.

The First Circle

1. Introduction – Vida

 Stress some historical approach (Ghana)

 How the literature reflects social class, struggles in the society, etc.? (Ex. What is the economic
status of the characters or to what class they belong to)
 Kwento mo yung sa author at kay alphonse (bakit niya sinulat genon, kanino dinedicate, etc.)
 Relationship of this literary work to social realities.
 Give some brief overview on what the poem is all about (parang pahapyaw lang genon)

2. Explanation of 1st and 2nd Stanzas – Hillary

 Do a CRITICAL ANALYSIS
 Explain the symbolisms used (crow, cell, new year, etc.)
 Address the social issues na pinakita sa stanza (relate mo sa reality at meaning ng poem basta
genon)
 Cite some lines from the stanza (yung sabi ni ms)
 Ano yung pinapahiwatig ni Kofi Awoonor sa stanzas na yan

3. Explanation of 3rd and 4th Stanzas – Gloria

 Do a CRITICAL ANALYSIS
 Explain mo yung mga pangyayari dyan (Cite lines from the stanza din)
 Mas magbigay ka ng emphasis dun sa 4th stanza kase parang climax yun.
 Explain if there are symbolisms
 I-relate mo sa social reality or pede din sa buhay na naranasan ni Kofi (keri mo na yan
HAHAHAH)
 Overall message ng poem

4. Conclusion – Clarisse

 Assess the role of government in this literature.

 How do they fare against economic and political odds?
 What other conditions stemming from their class does the writer emphasize?
 To what extent does the work fail by overlooking the economic, social, and political implications
of its material?
 In what other ways does economic determinism affect the work?
 How should the readers consider this story in today’s developed or underdeveloped world?
Conclusion

Isaac Asimov once quoted, the last refuge of the incompetent is violence. There had been so many
people in the past who died, who became victims, who were injured, and who suffered because of other
people’s violent behaviors. As oftentimes, the people whom we put our trust into are the same people
who put our lives at stake. Hence, this poem explicitly revealed the flaws hidden behind the masks of
these people, specifically, the government that lacks transparency and political stability. Ghana, being
one of the countries exposed in socio-political issues back then, has ignited the spirit of Kofi Awoonor to
instigate a revolt against a tyrannical government administration to demand for justice and change as
echoed by his works that speak the irreplaceable power of paper. Awoonor, being a man of absolute
principle, did not let himself be silenced by fear; hence, he took a stand against the injustice and
unlawful act of the government which is being overlooked by many. More so, the author also conveys a
crucial message regarding violence and the factors that influence it. In the contemporary times, this
phenomenon has become more and more ubiquitous as the interplay of political and social forces
continue across the globe. As such, violence has been surrounded by hate, racism, and oppression,
which is sometimes in the hands of those people in power. While violence can definitely be reduced, it
will never be eliminated due to the nature of politicians who stand against the people, not with the
people. As they believe that they have the upper hand, it gives them the capability in doing the most
offensive and menacing behavior, and silence the people, thereafter. That said, if it is a crime to commit
an act of violence, why is the government allowed to do it? No one is above the law; even the
government does not stand above the law. Any form of violence is violence as is whereas that should be
punishable by law if it is done under unjust circumstances. Just like what was exemplified by Awoonor,
we should not be silenced at all costs as long as we know that we take the right path. “Those who make
peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable." – John F. Kennedy

Make a short and simple feminist literary criticism of the poem "Marks" by Linda Pastan. Make it just
three (3) paragraphs. Just answer the following questions:
How is the patriarchal society implied on this poem?

How is this situation unjust for the mother?

What do you think is the purpose of the author for writing this poem?

Traditionally, as far as history goes, women were considered to be full-time homemakers – the one who
is solely in-charged to take care of the children and any family errands. In the poem “Marks” by Linda
Pasta, the author exposed the occurrence of male dominance in a household as the woman was being
graded by her family, particularly her husband, on how she performs her “womanly” tasks. It describes
how the husband treats his wife as a typical housewife who is limited in doing such things which,
somehow, mirrors what people normally feel about women and who they should “serve” as a wife. As
such, it denotes the unequal involvement of men and women in mere household matters that women
are deemed to be under the authority of their husbands. It implies how men can be manipulative and
passive in certain circumstances as they set their mindset on the societal norms that they should be the
one who is in control or in dominance of their spouse. These gender roles tend to “cast men as rational,
strong, protective, and decisive; and women as emotional, weak, nurturing, and submissive,” which
sparks the idea of criticism in women on this poem. However, it must be stressed out that women are
not supposed to be slaves to their husbands. Yes, women (wives) are held responsible in doing tasks
which are really subjected to them but not to the extent that they would gauge her worth as a mother,
wife, and woman depending on her performance in how she accomplishes the household chores.

They say, a mother’s love endures through all, no matter what the circumstance is. However, with too
much pressure put on her by the way her family evaluates her performance, it gives her the idea that
she will never be enough no matter what she does as she is being underappreciated by them. As seen in
the poem, the speaker, who is the mother and the wife, has performed the duties that are seen to be
her “job”; she listens to whatever her family wants and she gives it to them, but instead of receiving
gratitude, she is constantly being assessed on how well she does it. The woman, in hopes of being a
responsible wife and mother, has selflessly slave herself away at the household chores in order to please
her family which implies how unjust this kind of cases is for women. Instead of a simple “thank you”,
they gave her different “marks” which represent the multiple standards that she must meet. Thus, in the
perspective of a mother, being measured by these marks is very saddening and unreasonable because
you have to meet their standards just to be loved and appreciated. It is almost as if they feel that the
housework really is her job, so she needs to be graded strictly on it when in fact, women, or mothers in
particular, should be treated far more than that.

Pastan wanted to put an end on the idea of femininity in the society whereas women should break free
from the patriarchal environment they live in. As revealed by the ending statement, “I pass. Wait ‘til
they learn. I’m dropping out,” it just defies all of the preconceived expectations on her as she tries to
break free from society’s female ideal. Hence, she finally realized that she does not want to conform to
her role in a patriarchal society. More so, the author attempts to attack the issue of women suppression
and discrimination in the society which is mostly revealed in family matters like what was depicted in
the poem. Throughout ages, society has defined gender roles as a social norm that should be accepted
and followed by every individual that identifies themselves as a man or a woman. However, as what the
author tries to imply, the toxicity of this mindset must be disrupted. When we attempt to assign certain
roles to either gender, we literally cut our potential as the human race in half. As they say, life is not a
competition between men and women; it is a collaboration.

Moana

Green Light – At the beginning of the clip, Moana ignited a green light at the verge of the darkness
which awakened the attention of Te Fiti. As it symbolizes the heart of Te Fiti, the green light was used to
indicate a sense of rebirth and hope to revive the true personality of Te Fiti of being a benevolent
goddess. Aside from that, the green color, as well, is generally associated with nature which was also
exemplified on how Te Fiti transformed the island from being dimmed and dismantled to its natural
beauty, once again.

Fire/Lava - Te Fiti, who was once the benevolent island goddess, suddenly became Te Ka, who was
manifested with fire and lava, after her heart was stolen by the demi-god Maui. The fire wrapped
around her turned her into a destructive lava demon whereas in certain circumstances, fire symbolizes
anger which is a force that has a dramatic effect on its environment. As she was released from her
torment, she slowly plunged the world into hatred and darkness and eradicate humanity as punishment.

Moana (Hero) – As the heart of Te Fiti was found and bestowed upon Moana, she was compelled to
accomplish her mission in returning it to save the world which makes her the hero of the island. As she
bravely embarked on her journey across the ocean, Moana managed to restore the heart to its rightful
place which revived Te Fiti and prevented the world to be deteriorated and destroyed. Thus, this depicts
that when Moana returns the “heart”, she effectively fixed humans’ relationship with nature and, in
turn, reawakened the true beauty of the island.

The Lion King

Nagpakita yung sun – As Rafiki lifted Simba at the peak of the Pride Rock, a sun suddenly shined out of
the clouds which brightened the entire animal kingdom. As such, the sun marks the beginning of Simba’s
reign as the king of the animal kingdom which may also represent life, influence, and strength towards
them. Hence, it also gives a sense of hope on animals with Simba as the newly-crowned king of the
jungle.

Nala – As Simba was being anticipated as the new king of the animal kingdom, Nala, his lifelong best
friend, has been with him all throughout his journey and quest on being a king. More so, when Scar has
taken over their kingdom, she valiantly rebelled against their reign by assisting Simba in reclaiming the
throne and even supported him constantly, regardless of the consequences. She ran with him in their
childhood days and fought with him throughout their adulthood, until at last, Simba got his throne all
over the animal kingdom.

You don't want

to go to the market with worn-out shoes

and come back with the same old dress.

Nowadays, the society tends to put much pressure on a person’s physical attractiveness as for
them, appearance is everything to the extent that a person’s value and overall being are solely gauged
by his/her external aspects. With that, back then, every time that I need to go out – be it with my family,
friends, or even alone – I always ensure that I would look well-groomed and physically-appealing
because I am worried on how others might think or say about me. In these lines from the poem
“Poverty” by Pablo Neruda, it, somehow, implies the scrutiny over a ridiculous “crime of fashion” such
as outfit repeating and wearing old shoes due to the subconscious need to keep up appearances as set
by societal norms. Connecting it to the context of the poem, once you wear something that is not as
fancy as what the rich people have, you will already be deemed as part of what they call the ‘lower class’
which sparks the idea of discrimination in society. That said, I became well-hounded by the belief that
keeping up appearances is everything which, in turn, has led me to become too anxious and pressured
by other’s opinions. However, I have realized that wearing the same clothes or even worn-out shoes
every now and then is neither a crime nor something to be ashamed of as long as you wear them and
not let them wear you. Thus, we must not be shriveled up on projecting the image that do not really
define us because in the end, our inner selves are all that really matters in life. Yes, physical appearance
does matter a lot given that it is the first visual information that others can perceive; however, looks are
not an accurate indication of a person's character as we are always more than what the eyes can see.

As they say, being beautiful has nothing to do with physical appearance; rather, it’s your character as a
person and how you make others feel about themselves.