The Japanese Period

(1941-1945) –
Selected Literary
Works
ANN BEVERLY CORONA-VERBOSIDAD, MAED Eng
Instructress, College of Teacher Education
Negros Oriental State University Bayawan-Sta. Catalina Campus
* Haikus by Gonzalo K. Flores
Translations:
Tutubi Dragonfly

Hila mo’y tabak You’re pulling a saber

Ang bulaklak nanginig The flowers shivered
Sa paglapit mo. When you approached.

Anyaya Invitation

Ulilang damo Lonely grass

Sa tahimik na ilog By the quiet river
Halika sinta. Come, love.
* Tanagas by Ildefonso Santos (Liwayway, 10/10/43)
Translations:
Palay Rice
Palay siyang matino He’s a behaved rice
Nang humangi’y yumuko, Who bowed when the wind blew
Ngunit muling tumayo, But stood up again
Nagkabunga ng ginto. And bore gold.

Kabibi Shell
Kabibi, ano ka ba? Shell, hey!
May perlas maganda ka You’re a beautiful pearl
Kung idikit sa tainga If you are pressed to the ears
Nagbubuntunghininga. You sigh.
Reference

Kahayon, A. H. and Zulueta, C. A. (2000). Philippine literature

through the years. Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila:
National Book Store.