Question 1: What is the significance of Lucky Plaza in the poem?

Lucky Plaza serves as a central location in the poem, symbolizing the hopes and dreams of Filipino migrant
workers. It is a place where they can gather, socialize, and feel a sense of community amidst the challenges of
working abroad.
However, the plaza also represents the harsh realities of their situation, such as the long hours they work and the
discrimination they face. Roma skillfully portrays this duality through her use of sensory details and
metaphorical language.

Question 2: How does Roma explore the theme of identity in the

poem?
Identity is a recurring theme in Lucky Plaza, as the migrant workers struggle to reconcile their Filipino heritage
with their new lives in a foreign country. Roma highlights this tension through her use of language,
incorporating Tagalog words and phrases alongside English.
She also explores the idea of cultural hybridity, as the workers adapt to their new surroundings while still
holding onto their traditions and beliefs. This creates a complex and nuanced portrayal of identity that resonates
with readers from all backgrounds.

Question 3: How does Roma use imagery to convey the emotions of

the migrant workers?
Roma's use of vivid imagery is one of the strengths of Lucky Plaza, as she paints a richly detailed portrait of the
workers' experiences. She describes the heat and humidity of the plaza, the smells of food and perfume, and the
sounds of chatter and music.
Through these sensory details, she conveys the workers' feelings of longing, homesickness, and isolation. The
poem is infused with a sense of nostalgia and yearning, as the workers strive to connect with their loved ones
back home while navigating the challenges of living abroad.

Question 4: How does Roma address issues of class and inequality in

the poem?
Lucky Plaza also touches on the issue of class and inequality, as the workers are often subjected to low wages,
poor working conditions, and discrimination. Roma portrays the workers as resilient and resourceful, but also
vulnerable and marginalized.
She uses metaphors and symbolism to highlight the power dynamics at play, such as the contrast between the
workers' humble meals and the extravagant displays of wealth in the plaza. This adds another layer of
complexity to the poem and raises important questions about social justice and human rights.

Question 5: What is the overall message of Lucky Plaza?

At its core, Lucky Plaza is a poem about resilience, hope, and the human spirit. Despite the challenges and
hardships faced by the migrant workers, Roma celebrates their strength and perseverance.
She also calls attention to the larger societal issues that affect these workers, urging readers to consider the ways
in which we can create a more just and equitable world. The poem is both a tribute to the Filipino diaspora and
a call to action for social change.