MIDSUMMER

By Manuel E. Arguilla.

The theme of the story is basically the attraction and falling in love at first sight between two
characters, Manong and Ading, which we cannot define if it is love or rather lust comparing it to the
modern day understanding of love. The setting of the narrative in the height of summer allows us to
experience the sweltering heat of a developing connection. The plot concerns a common encounter
between a man and woman who may have a successful future together. Like the countryside
background, the discourse between the characters is simple, but it is rife with emotion. The tale is
highly in-depth, which allowed us readers to get the conclusion that they both felt the same way for
one another. Although the focus of the novel is mostly on Manong's sentiments, it is clear from the
way Ading approaches and observes him that she is drawn to him. As Arguilla describes the
characters' appearances and behaviors, readers may sense the tension between the two characters. For
example, “her lips parted in a half smile and a little dimple appeared high upon her right cheek”. It's
possible that the author wanted his readers to understand how it's possible to fall in love when you
least expect it.

The tale may be categorized as a case of love at first sight. It centers on Manong and Ading's
encounter at a remote rural well. Manong, who was pushing his cart toward the well on one of the
hottest days of the summer, noticed a young woman by the name of Ading as he was approaching the
well at noon. Manong hesitates to speak to or approach Ading at first since she wasn't initially aware
of him. Manong was disappointed that Ading didn't heed him, but Ading approached him and turned
to face him while he was eating. During their brief talk, the pail of water accidently splashed into his
dinner. Following that, Manong assisted Ading in re-filling the jar. As soon as she noticed that the sun
was virtually everywhere, she invited Manong to her house, which piqued her interest in him. The
story basically came to an end with Manong accompanying Ading to her house, where there is shelter
from the sun. The youthfulness and vibrancy of the couple are contrasted as we think back on the
story. The narrative readily captivates readers since it is loaded with emotion. In truth, people's
perceptions of love, at first sight, are just that personal. When we first meet someone, especially a
stranger, we can't really experience love, yet we might still be drawn to them. Readers are left
wondering if their relationship will end happily or tragically because the novel only begins after the
character's initial meeting which caused them to fall in love. Given how unexpectedly things turned
out, particularly in the final section, destiny also plays a role in the plot. The final sentence, "He felt
quite powerful. The line, “He felt very strong. He felt that he could follow the slender, lithe figure to
the end of the world” struck us the most since it hinted that there might be more after that.

In particular, a Filipina and a Binata from a rural region serve as archetypes for the Filipino people in
the novel. Manong, the protagonist of the narrative, is the one trying to find employment for himself
and his pet bull. Because she invited Manong to their home, the woman is welcoming. The narrative
describes the normal manner a dalagang Filipina met a binata, which is comparable to our generation
as classic ways of meeting people have modified. The fast-paced way of life in cities is very different
from how simple life is in rural regions. Manong was courteous and respectful to Ading. Today, we
understand attractiveness and love incorrectly. Also, On the other hand, the observable sensuality in
the narrative also hints at the flutter of imagination that physical attraction may cause in the brains of
young adults. This story basically explicitly uses the setting and characteristics of the Philippines.

I believe the author intended to depict Filipino behavior in his writing. Filipino characteristics are
evident throughout the narrative, including the way they eat, how they welcome others, particularly
strangers, how casually they interact with them, and how quickly they embrace others. The details in
this narrative by the author are clear and vivid. The whole narrative is straightforward and plain, yet I
think it inspires Filipinos to reflect on their heritage and value its simplicity.