EXPLORING THE EVOLUTION OF PHILIPPINE LITERATURE:

An Annotated Reading List of the Selected Philippine Literature from

1900 up to the Present

BY

CABRAL, AYA, B.
Student, Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English

TO

NICOLAS, BILLY JOE M.

Faculty, College of Education, World Citi Colleges – Guimba

In partial fulfilment of the Requirements for the subject

SP ENG 301: SURVEY OF THE PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH
 December 2022

PERIOD OF RE-ORIENTATION

SURSUM CORDA: JUSTO JULIANO

1907

Annotation/Summary

Justo Julliano’s poem “Sursum Corda” (“Lift Up Your Hearts”) is a prayer to God asking for
strength, courage, and hope. It calls on God to provide guidance in the face of adversity, and to
give us the strength to persevere. The poem reminds us that the power of prayer can make all the
difference in life, and that God’s love and grace will always be there for us, no matter how
difficult times may be.

Important Dialogues

1. “Peace that hallows rudest ways.”

2. “Here am I, here will I remain”
3. “In sleep their jubilant troop is near, I tuneful voices overhear.”

AIR CASTLE: JUAN F. SALAZAR

1909

Annotation/Summary
In this poem, Juan F. Salazar reflects on the idea of an “air castle,” which is a metaphor for lofty
dreams or ambitions. Juan F. Salazar encourages readers to strive for greatness and never give up
on their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. He believes that with enough
dedication and perseverance, anything can be achieved.

Important Dialogues

1. “My future seems a boundless sea,

Where moving passions come and go.”
2. “I love his skill, his craft of men,
His mastery of poet’s art.”
3. “I wear achievement’s coronet,
For best are they who see things done!”

PERIOD OF IMITATION

DEAD STARS: PAZ MARQUEZ BENITEZ

1925

Annotation/Summary
Alfredo, a lawyer over 30 years old, got engaged to Esperanza. His father and sister discussed
the wedding but he was unsure about getting married. He then met Julia Salas, the sister-in-law
of Judge del Valle, and gradually fell in love with her. His relationship with Esperanza changed
and he eventually said goodbye to Julia. However, after getting married to Esperanza, Alfredo
returned to see if he was still in love with Julia but the feelings had gone.

Important Dialogues
 1. “light of dead stars, long extinguished, yet seemingly still in their appointed places in
the heavens.”
2. “ does not seem to be in much of a hurry either,” Don Julian nasally commented,
while his rose scissors busily snipped away. “How can a woman be in a hurry when
the man does not hurry her?” Carmen returned, pinching off a worm with a careful,
somewhat absent air.
3. Mystery—” she answered lightly, “that is so brief—”
“Not in some,” quickly. “Not in you.”
“You have known me a few weeks; so the mystery.”
“I could study you all my life and still not find it.”
“So long?”
“I should like to.”

A CHILD OF SORROW: ZOILO GALANG

1922

Annotation/ Summary
The story is about two people, Lucio and Rosa, who met under the American colonization and
were forced apart due to Rosa’s father’s position in the government. Rosa was arranged to marry
Oscar, a rich man who loved her, but the relationship between the three of them led to emotional
downfall and mental abuse. Rosa died of sadness, Oscar committed suicide after her death, and
Lucio was left with full of regrets and the realization of himself being a child of sorrow.

Important Dialogues
1. “I wish to see you again before I leave, angelic beauty. You are a vision, born of love
and sweet fancy, I am yours I will lay down my life like a cavalier of old ad die for
you…”
2. “It is only our love that makes me live. And I believe that women only live for love. I
do, and am still waiting for you….Forget me not…. And believe me, I am still
waiting for the promised day….Yours till death do us part”
 3. Born of sorrow, I am and a man of sorrow, I shall be..."

PERIOD OF SELF -DISCOVERY

SOFT NIGHT: ABELARDO SUBIDO

Annotation/Summary
Abelardo Subido’s poem “Soft Night” is a love poem that admires the night sky. The speaker is
in love of the beauty of the night, and the poem is a celebration of its stars, moon, and the peace
and understanding it brings. The poem is a reminder to appreciate the night for its calming
qualities and beauty.

Important Dialogues
1. Rise from your dreams; I bring you love more sweet
2. I breathe your name; floats upon the breeze
3. Rise from your dreams. The sampaguitas faints

POEMS BY DOVEGLION: JOSW GARCIA VILLA

2008

When Pigeon Walked Towards Me

Annotation/Summary
In this poem, a pigeon walks toward the speaker, and its breast suddenly opens to reveal God.
God walks closer to the speaker and gestures to them without motion, speaking to them without
words and asking them to open up to let Him ascend. This poem is a metaphor for allowing God
into one’s life, and trusting Him to lead and guide you.

Important Dialogues
1. God was there in the wound / Walking to me!
 2. Gesturing to me without motion, / Talking to me without words: / ‘Open. Open. Let
me ascend. / Open. Open!
3. At the base of my mortal body / Looking up at me!

Nobody Yet Knows Who I am

Annotation/Summary
Jose Villa is on a journey to discover himself. He is filled with curiosity and excitement,
although he is not sure what he will find. He imagines a magical and beautiful world that lies
ahead of him, full of mysterious roses, stars, and jewels. He is looking forward to uncovering the
secrets of his identity.

Important Dialogues
1. Yet Finality is very near- / I rush, I run, I run!”
2. “Nor yet what I deal, / Nor yet where I lead.”
3. “But in my skull already bright, / And death in rose attire, / And in my mouth already
star / And jewels firmly wrought.”

HOW MY BROTHER LEON BROUGHT HOME A WIFE: MANUEL ARGUILLA

1940

Annotation/Summary
The story is about a city girl who marries a village boy and has to adapt to the simpler and more
laborious life of the village. When they arrive back in his hometown, the girl’s father-in-law sets
her a challenge to prove she can handle the village lifestyle. She succeeds and is welcomed into
the family.

Important Dialogues
1. “He did not say Maring. He did not say Mayang. I knew then that he had always
called her Maria and that to us all she would be Maria; and in my mind I said ‘Maria’
and it was a beautiful name.”
 2. “Noel-“ she said. /“Yes, Maria.” / “I am afraid. He may not like me.” /“Does that
worry you still, Maria?” my brother Leon said, “From the way you talk, he might be
an ogre for all the world. Except when his leg that was wounded in the Revolution is
troubling him, Father is the mildest tempered, gentlest man I know.”
3. “You miss the houses, and the cars, and the people, and the noise, don’t you?” / my
brother Leon stopped singing. /“Yes, but in a different way. I am glad they are not
here.”

SUNSET: PAZ LATORENA

2008

Annotation/ Summary
This is a tale of two people who fall in love without knowing anything about each other,
including their cultural backgrounds. It also speaks to Filipino wedding customs, and shows how
events like these could still happen in the present day.

Important Dialogues
1. “But we have to wait,” he told her one evening across their frugal meal; “marriage
costs money. The license… other fees…”
2. “Because I love him, señorita, and I want him to think he is paying for the license, not
I,” she explained as she snatched a scarf- the same faded violet scarf with which she
had come to her cobbler out of the night and the rain and hurried out.
3. “I do not want you to go back to that house.” He reminded her, “and I shall pay for
the license, “he added in cold voice.

I AM A FILIPINO: CARLOS P. ROMULO

1941

Annotation/Summary
In Carlos P. Romulo’s literary work “I Am Filipino”, he emphasizes the strong desire of
Filipinos to attain independence. He celebrates the resilience of Filipinos who are determined to
fight for their flag and never give up their right to freedom. Through this piece, Romulo
encourages Filipinos to be proud of their nation and to embrace their identity.

Important Dialogues
1. I am a Filipino
2. This land I received in trust from them and in trust will pass it to my children, and so
on until the world is no more.
3. “I am a Filipino born to freedom, and shall not rest until freedom shall have been
added unto my inheritance-for myself and my children and my children’s children-
forever.”

ISANG DIPANG LANGIT: AMADO V. HERNANDEZ

1961

Annotation/ Summary
The poem “Isang Dipang Langit” conveys a sense of optimism and faith in the future. It
encourages us to remain hopeful and not be disheartened by the challenges that come our way.
Even though life can be tough, there is always something to look forward to. Our success lies in
not giving up and having faith that better days lie ahead.

Important Dialogues
1. Ikinulong ako sa kutang malupit: / Bato, bakal, punlo, balasik ng bantay;
2. Sintalim ng kidlat ang mata ng tanod, / Sa pintong may susi’t walang makalapit;
3. At ito ang tanging daigdig ko ngayon – / Bilangguang mandi’y libingan ng buhay

ANG DAPAT PANIWALAAN: JOSE F. LACABA

1965-1969
Annotation/ Summary
First seven lines in the poem we can see that a grandmother is telling a story to her grandchild
and the content of the stories is more on mythical creatures or this superstitious beliefs, here in
the Philippines that is said to be dangerous for children. Like if you’re observe around us there’s
a lot of sayings of this and of do’s and don’ts.

Important Dialogues
1. Siya’y pinalaki ng lolang palakuwento, kaya sa pagtulog ay lagging kasiping ang
kapre, tikbalang multo at maligno
2. Subalit pagpasok sa unibersidad, nang ang kanyang lola’y matagal nang patay,
3. Na ang dapat niyang katakutan ay tao, at sa tao’y hindi dasal ang panlaban.
FLASH FICTION
PROPOSAL FAIL: JUAN BAUTISTA
2015

Annotation/Summary
The short short story tells us that it is important to remember that judging others is not beneficial
for anyone. We should instead try to have an open mind and be understanding of others, even if
we disagree with them. Doing this will help to create a positive atmosphere where everyone can
feel accepted and respected

Important Dialogues
1. “You’re proposing without a ring?”
2. “Alam ko singsing yan. Pero bakit walang bato?”
3. “Bahay niya lang. Feelingerang ‘to.”

SPECULATIVE LITERATURE

BIAG NI LAM-ANG ( Life of Lam-ang): PEDRO BUCANEG

1984
Annotation/ Summary
The epic poem Biag ni Lam-ang is about the life and adventures of the hero Lam-ang. It tells of
how he was born speaking, how he went on a journey to avenge his father’s death, and how he
eventually finds his true love. Along the way, he also demonstrates his courage and strength. The
poem is considered to be the oldest surviving epic poem in the Philippines.

Important Dialogues
1. “Mother Namungan, if I may ask, / What foulness he perpetrated. / The father I
sprang from?”
2. “If you can fulfill All that we assign to you You can marry our Cannoyan;
3. “The old man, the diver. / My wife Cannoyan, / Give him a pile of coins taller than he
is.”

Graphic Novels
BAYUGIN: JAP MIKEL
2019

Annotation/ Summary
Ths story is about a binabae is someone who is fighting against unfair treatment by the people in
charge in their country. They are trying to find out who they are and make sure that their rights
are respected, even though it is hard to do so in a place where people don’t treat them kindly.

Important Dialogues
1. VADE RETRO SATANA!
2. Hoy dayo… Kung ang inyong poon ay pagkamuhi at kamatayan lamang ang hatid…
3. Kailanma’y hindi kami luluhod… sa inyong paniniwalang puno ng galit
 REFLECTION ON THE CHANGES OF THE PHILIPPINE LITERARY PIECES IN
THE PHILIPPINES

Many Filipino writers have been creating stories since the year 1900. In the past, these stories
often told traditional tales. Now, more stories are about how people live today and how different
cultures can be seen around the world.

Filipino literature has taken a major turn in the past century, transitioning from traditional tales to
stories that reflect the lives of Filipino people in modern times. This shift has been made possible
by a variety of literary forms, ranging from poems and plays to comics and children’s stories.
They have also enabled stories to be written in English, allowing for a larger audience to be
reached.

The stories written In the Philippines today tell of the challenges and joys of living in a cultural
country. Through their writing, they have been able to bring attention to issues that are important
to the Filipino people and to the world. In recent years, Filipino literature has become more
accessible to readers outside of the Philippines. Books written by Filipino authors are now being
translated into other languages and published around the world. This has allowed Filipino writers
to reach a much larger audience and to have their stories be appreciated by people of other
cultures.

All of these changes have ultimately helped to shape the way Filipinos view their culture. New
writers have created stories and poems about identity, gender, class, and race, which helps
Filipinos know more about their own culture. This helps them to understand their culture better.
Filipino readers have been able to gain a better understanding of the Filipino experience and the
various aspects of Filipino culture and society.

It is very important for a country to have their own literary pieces, as it serves as a form of
cultural expression and helps to define their identity. Literary works provide an insight into the
values, beliefs, and traditions of a particular society, and help to shape the collective memory of
a nation. In addition, literature can be used to explore and examine difficult topics, such as social
issues, and can help to open up a dialogue on these topics within society. Finally, literature can
provide a source of entertainment, providing readers with a chance to explore new worlds and
experiences

Literature can be used to teach us about history, culture, and language as well as providing us
with a source of entertainment. Literature can also provide us with inspiration and guidance in
our daily lives. It can help us reflect on our experiences and develop our own personal beliefs
and values.
 REFLECTION ON THE 21ST CENTURY PHILIPPINE LITERATURE

21st century Philippine literature is special because it is full of interesting stories,

poems, and other types of writing. It comes from many different authors who have
different backgrounds. This literature also uses many different languages, such as
English, Tagalog, and other Philippine languages. These stories often teach us
about Filipino culture, history, and politics. They also explore important topics like
gender and sexuality. All of these stories are important because they give us a
better understanding of the world we live in.
The 21st century has seen advances in technology and communication, and with
this comes a new age of literature. Literature plays an important role in the
education of students, as it provides them with an opportunity to explore the world
around them, to understand different perspectives, and to become more informed
citizens.

Literature allows students to investigate the complexities of life and to develop

critical thinking skills. It provides a chance to explore and discuss different
cultures, beliefs, and values, which gives them an understanding of different
people and cultures. Literature also helps students develop literacy skills, as they
learn to interpret and analyze texts. Literature can teach students to think more
deeply and be more creative by engaging with stories, poems, and other forms of
literature. In short, literature helps students to become more informed and engaged
citizens, which benefits them and society as a whole.

Through the advances in technology, literature can be shared and accessed more
easily than ever before. With the internet, students can now access a wide range of
materials, from classic works of literature to contemporary works of fiction, non-
fiction, and poetry. Many authors have embraced new technologies, incorporating
digital media into their writing, creating multimedia works that combine text,
audio, and visuals. This abundance of platforms has enabled people to share their
stories and perspectives with a larger audience. At the same time, 21 st century
literature can provide students with a unique lens through which to view the world.
With the presence of social media, students are exposed to a wide range of
opinions and perspectives. Through literature, students can learn to recognize and
process these different perspectives, thus developing critical thinking skills.
Finally, 21st century literature can also help students develop their creativity and
imagination. Through literature, students can explore different perspectives, create
new stories and develop their own unique writing style. Additionally, literature can
also provide students with an understanding of different cultures and societies,
expanding their worldview and allowing them to gain a better understanding of the
world around them.

References

Sursum Corda
Poems, Household Edition, Emerson, 1904.djvu/122 – Wikisource, the Free Online Library.
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Air Castle
G. (2014, January 20). Air Castle. Air Castle | Gkathrinerose. Retrieved December 18, 2022,
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A child of Sorrow
F. (2001, March 1). Novel analysis: a child of sorrow. Novel Analysis: A Child of Sorrow.
Retrieved December 18, 2022, from https://www.slideshare.net/YenAgbay/novel-analysis-a-
child-of-sorrow

Collected Poems bDoveglion by Jose Garcia Villa

Doveglion: Collected Poems. (n.d.). In Google Books.
https://books.google.com/books/about/Doveglion_Collected_Poems.html?id=4d5bAwAAQBAJ

Sunset
Sunset and Desire by Paz Latorena | PDF. (n.d.). Scribd. Retrieved December 18, 2022, from
https://www.scribd.com/document/331381825/Sunset-and-Desire-by-Paz-Latorena

I am a Filipino
https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/philippine-science-high-school-system/stem/i-am-a-
filipino-by-carlos-p-romulo-speech/17589175

Isang Dipang Langit

J., & aking kumpletong profile, T. A. (n.d.). Isang Dipang Langit ni Amado V. Hernandez.
Jmsinoy_18: Isang Dipang Langit Ni Amado V. Hernandez. Retrieved December 18, 2022, from
http://jmsinoy.blogspot.com/2016/12/isang-dipang-langit-ni-amado-v-hernandez.html

Ang dapat paniwalaan

E., & complete profile, V. M. (2009, February 19). Ang Dapat Paniwalaan [Phil Lit TF 0900-
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phil-lit-tf-0900.html
Proposal Fail
Mga Dagli. (2015, April 15). Juan Bautista Stories. Retrieved December 18, 2022, from
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Biag ni Lam-Ang
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Bayugin
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4sm6rGdG7rDH7mY3wRMYd6XRs2WKbTmPl