#21st century literature

[have-you-read-this-short-fiction]

[edwardian-girl-next-door]

"It was a rare hot summer, the kind of summer you remember. The one that over time becomes the template for all the summers of the past."

~ Rachel Donohue, The Temple House Vanishing

[mann-walter]

"Lispenard Street" Finished; My Thoughts?

A Little Life is the longest novel I've read in some time, so I didn't expect to finish the first part of it so quickly. It's definitely an exposition piece: who's who, what does each one do, etc. At some points, it can feel a little digressive, but in the end, that sort of lengthy introduction seems very necessary going forward.

The thing I like least about it is JB. I haven't found anything truly positive about him yet, although he is very interesting. Maybe his frankness toward others and himself. On the other hand, Willem has emerged as my favorite thing about the book so far. He's a great character, all things considered, I really like his friendship with Jude: how much he truly cared, how much he wanted to help. I don't know if it's just me, but Willem's life seemed to be centered around not his own ambitions and self, but others as in he's very compassionate.

[liaaaannee]

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time: A Book Review

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has been critically acclaimed and won several awards, including the Whitbread Book Award and the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize.

It has also been hailed as a groundbreaking book that demonstrates how literature can be used to explore complex issues such as autism and family dynamics. It has also been praised for its unique narrative structure, which captures the experience of someone with autism by combining Christopher's vivid descriptions of his thoughts and feelings. In addition, it has garnered much acclaim for its exploration of communication breakdowns, as well as its compassionate portrayal of Christopher and his struggles.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a powerful novel that masterfully combines humor and insight with a touching story about overcoming life's challenges.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a 2003 novel by Mark Haddon. It tells the story of Christopher John Francis Boone, an autistic 15-year-old boy from Swindon, England, who investigates the death of his neighbor's dog Wellington.

The book follows Christopher as he embarks on a journey to uncover the mystery of the dog's death while also facing several challenges and dealing with his own difficulties. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters who help him in different ways – from his father to Mrs. Shears to Siobhan. The novel is narrated by Christopher himself and delves into themes such as autism, family dynamics, and communication breakdowns. As Christopher's investigation into the death of Wellington progresses, he is also forced to confront his own feelings and fears and come to terms with who he is. In the end, Christopher solves the mystery of Wellington's death while learning a lot about himself in the process.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a story of courage, understanding, and self-discovery. It is an insightful and thought-provoking book that will stay with readers long after they close the last page.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a book that remains close to my heart. Despite being unconventional compared to my usual genre of science fiction, this piece of a murder mystery novel is heartwarming and led me to reread it every time with giddiness. The main character, Christopher, is what most people refer to nowadays as neurodivergent. He struggles with understanding emotions and looks at the world as linearly as books teach him. He is good at maths, and one may think that this type of perspective is bleak, but Christopher's overview of the events surrounding him is interesting and entertaining.

The way the story is delivered is through Christopher's notes in his book. His therapist, Siobhan, encouraged him to detail every interesting moment in his life and wrote a novel to try his skills outside of his comfort zone. And so, the way the story is set up is unconventional. He wrote the order of chapters in prime numbers, and he cataloged pretty unnecessary details, but for him, it contained a deeper meaning. His writing portrays the "curious" in the title of the book since he wrote from his unique perspective.

Even though it is a murder mystery novel, Christopher mostly takes comfort in numbers and their laws. It was wonderfully crafted that even I, a person who most likely gets bored studying maths, was enraptured and understood the concept the main character was trying to point out. My favorite concepts were the Monty Hall problem and the Hound of Baskerville problem in a Sherlock Holmes novel. These are the perfect examples of how he thinks, and it is comforting to know that there are people like him who view the world in a unique way.

I sort of relate to the effect of people in Christopher's mind. If I am in a crowd, I always get overwhelmed and have the urge to just lie down and scream. My mind is blurry, and I cannot focus on the conversations around me. I think it would be more difficult for Christopher since he is on the autism spectrum and has difficulty understanding emotions. Still, I am glad that it is something other people experience as well, and I am not the only one who is struggling with this.

Overall, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is an enjoyable book that took me by surprise with its linear yet detailed story and unconventional approach to a murder mystery novel. It shows us that mathematics can be used as a way to understand emotions and complex problems. It is a book that I highly recommend when you are feeling overwhelmed and need to find your own way of understanding the world.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is truly a unique novel and one I would highly recommend to any reader looking for an interesting story with deep characters. It also serves as an important reminder that our differences in understanding the world can be embraced and used as a strength. It is an engaging and thought-provoking read that will leave you reflecting on your own worldview long after you've finished the book.

Psychological/Psychoanalytic Criticism

On a psychological level, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time can be read as an exploration of Christopher's mental state and his attempts to make sense of his world. It is often seen as an example of how someone with autism can learn to cope with the condition while also exploring their own emotions and gaining self-awareness. Psychoanalysis has also been used to explore the ways in which family dynamics and gender roles play a role in the book, with a particular focus on Christopher's relationship with his father. In this way, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time can be seen as an exploration of how individuals react to their environment and how they learn to cope with it.

Feminist Criticism

The novel has also been analyzed from a feminist perspective, with some critics arguing that the female characters in the novel are defined almost exclusively by their relation to men. Particularly, they point out how Mrs. Shears and Siobhan are often portrayed as mother figures to Christopher, while his own mother is absent from much of the narrative. Psychoanalysis has been used to explore why this might be, with some suggesting that Christopher's difficulty forming relationships with other women could be attributed to his mother's departure when he was young. However, they also point out how Siobhan is an ultimately devoted figure who plays a key role in helping Christopher come to terms with his autism.

Sociological criticism

From a sociological perspective, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time can be seen as an exploration of how minorities are treated in society. Christopher's autism makes him different from other people, and this is something that he often has to contend with. He also faces discrimination and misunderstanding due to his condition, which highlights how even those with disabilities can be subjected to prejudice. This can also be seen in his relationship with his father, which is often strained due to their differences and inability to communicate properly. Ultimately, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time provides an insight into how people with disabilities are treated in society and how they must struggle against prejudices and misunderstanding.

Deconstructionist criticism

Lastly, deconstructionist critics have argued that The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is an exploration of how language and communication can be used to obscure and distort meaning. This is seen most notably in Christopher's difficulty with understanding what people are saying and his struggle to express himself properly. In this way, the novel can be seen as an exploration of how language can be used to manipulate and deceive, which is something that Christopher has to contend with throughout the story.

Overall, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is an insightful and thought-provoking novel that can be interpreted from several perspectives. While it deals with many difficult issues, it ultimately has a hopeful message about facing life's challenges head-on and learning to make sense of the world around you.

Characters

Round characters: Christopher Boone is the main protagonist of the story and a round character. He changes throughout the course of his journey, becoming more accepting of himself and his circumstances. His father is also a round character as he undergoes several changes over the course of the novel, ultimately embracing change and learning to open up to those around him.

Flat characters: Siobhan is a flat character as she remains the same throughout the novel and does not undergo any changes. She is Christopher's teacher and supporter, but her role in the story does not evolve much beyond that.

Static characters: Judy Boone is a static character as she does not undergo any significant changes throughout the story. She is Christopher's mother and remains largely absent from the novel, only appearing briefly at a few points to provide support for her son.

Dynamic characters: Roger Shears is a dynamic character as he changes significantly over the course of the novel. In the beginning, he is a kind and supportive neighbor, which leads to Christopher's mother falling in love and moving out with him, but as the story progresses, he reveals himself to be a selfish and manipulative man. His change in character is an important part of the plot and serves to demonstrate how people can have multiple layers and sides to them.

Setting

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is mostly set in Swindon, England.

Themes

One of the main themes in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is communication and understanding. Throughout his journey, Christopher must learn to understand and accept those around him in order to move forward. He must learn to express his thoughts and feelings in a new way, which is often difficult given his autism.

The novel also explores the concept of family and belonging. Christopher's journey forces him to confront the truth about his parents and their relationship, leading him to question where he fits into the world. He ultimately discovers that his family is much larger and more supportive than he could have ever expected, providing him with newfound strength to face his troubles.

Point of View

The novel is written in the first-person point of view from Christopher's perspective. This allows readers to gain insight into his thoughts and feelings as he experiences new things, making it easier to sympathize with him and understand his struggles. The novel also incorporates elements of detective fiction as Christopher hunts for clues in order to solve the mystery of who killed Wellington, the neighbor's dog.

Conflict

The main conflict in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is internal. Christopher struggles to make sense of his world and the people around him, which leads to feelings of confusion, frustration, and fear. He must find a way to express himself without pushing away those who care about him, as well as learn how to accept himself despite his autism. This inner conflict drives the story forward as Christopher searches for answers and learns to embrace change.

Mood

The mood of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is both hopeful and tense. Despite Christopher's struggles, there are moments of optimism as he learns to open up to those around him and discovers the truth about his family. At the same time, there is a sense of tension and suspense due to the mystery plotline that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Symbolism

One of the main symbols in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is Christopher's pet rat, Toby. Throughout the novel, Toby serves as a companion and confidante for Christopher, giving him someone to talk to and occupy his thoughts with. His relationship with Toby symbolizes his need for understanding and comfort.

The murder of Wellington also serves as a symbol in the novel. The murder reflects Christopher's struggles to understand and communicate with those around him, as well as his difficulty in dealing with change and unexpected events.

[paltova]

One glance, Big Impact

From a glance, to a simple smile that turns into friendship and simple acts of kindness can light up someone's world. It was scorching hot and my hands were pinkish and burning as the coldness of my favorite drink slowly ran down my insides. I was sitting on a bench at 7/11 Slurpee day with Katrina. I kept my eyes closed while enjoying every moment of the heavenly taste of my favorite Cherry Bomb flavored drink. I abruptly opened my eyes due to a sudden brain freeze and when my eyes accidentally passed by the other bench, I was stunned when a young boy was looking at me with his mouth opened.

The young boy noticed me looking, so he looked the other way. I did not concern myself about it and just continued drinking. Suddenly, There was a growling sound coming from my stomach, so Katrina teased me that there's a bear inside being noisy and told me that she would buy food for me… Yes, generous right? But I declined her request, for I didn't want her to cover my expenses. Then she responded, “Okay if that’s what you want, no free meals from the goddess, Baby .” She smirked at me and I just threw an annoyed face and rolled my eyes at her. While I was looking for my wallet, Katrina found her lunch box with leftovers so she got the brown paper from the packaging of my Slurpee, and stood to throw it in a bin. When I found my wallet I waited for her to arrive at our place but then while looking in her direction, I saw the young boy again - he was begging for some food to certain customers and passersby saying “Ate pahingi po ng pagkain…” yet no one noticed him, I witnessed a scene where his hand accidentally touch an upper class man’s arm while going out from his car and the young boy got a mouthful from him “ You...Filthy little thing! Don’t touch me! How muddy!” the young boy nodded sadly. I Wanted to punch the man badly but I don't want to make the situation worse. As the man went inside the store, the boy just sat on the dirty floor and wiped his tears. Then told himself “Okay lang yun, may masarap na pagkain sa basurahan...” He then stood and checked the bin. His eyes went wide when he saw Katrina’s leftover and exclaimed “may paaagkaeeeenn!” When Katrina arrived and sat beside me telling me to go buy food, I didn't move an inch and eyes settled on the young boy who was called by two little children “ Kuya Romyyy! ” Finally I know his name! - was the thing in my mind. Katrina was holding the sleeves of my uniform to get my attention, but I ignored her. The young boy named Romy was about to open the brown bag but it was spilled by a passerby who did not apologize and he did not feel anything at all but it made him shocked when the food that was on the road got crushed by a car! I got up immediately from my seat and I just shouted “ Wait moko, saglit lang yung mga bata!” left Katrina confused.

‘Rooomyyy!' I shouted. But he didn't look and his siblings hid by his side while I was getting near. I gave a pat on Romy’s back and looked at the two children beside him, telling them “Okay lang yun, tara punta tayo sa table namin…” Romy followed me sadly and guided his siblings. When we reached our table… I saw Katrina’s smiling face and she made the children sit down and cleaned our table with a table napkin and alcohol. I was not planning to give them money but give them food instead since I was about to eat too and also to make sure that the kids have something to eat. “ I’m gonna buy some food so that we have something to eat,Kat.” I said. But I don't have enough money to buy food for 4 but someone bothered my thoughts. Katrina held my arm and said “Let’s split the bill in half,dear.” I just smiled and got her wallet, she really knows how to read me. Carrying the food and drinks that I bought and some little snacks, I was by the glass door and saw them chatting happily. I got out from the store and put all our wallets in our bag. Katrina said “ here comes the food!” I smiled and told them “ I bought some 5 Giniling Tipid Meals, some biscuits and slurpee - the good thing is that when I ordered 4 slurpee only the cashier asked me “Why only 4? Lima keyo ‘di ba? Wala ka?” I shyly smiled and told him that I'm short of money then the cashier insisted to buy one for me “ Ililibre kita, nakakatuwa at inspiring ang ginawa mo, isa kang huwarang bata!” I grinned and they all looked so amazed and excited on what they heard when katrina translated what i’ve said to the kids! It’s time to eat But before that Katrina took some alcohol and sprayed some on the children’s hands and mine as well. We then distribute the meals, drinks and snacks are divided for the children. “ Etoh po si Mae at Mar, kayo po anong pangalan ninyo po?”

Saka... salamat po wala po kasi kaming pera pambili ng pagkain sumakabilang buhay na po kase si papa si mamang naman po may sakit ngaayon, sobrang bait niyo po, maraming salamat po” Katrina and I released a smile on our faces. I looked at her and she nodded, she was like telling me it's a green signal that I should respond. “ Salamat din, kahit wala kayong sapat na makain sa araw araw, pipiliin niyo pa ring maging mabuting tao, nang sa gayon ay lalaki kayong matulungin.Magsikap na matulungan ang mga magulang at maging isang responsableng tao.” I smiled and added “ Ako si Cassandra heto namang katabi ko ay si Katrina, masaya kaming makilala kayo Romy, Mar at Mae!” All of us smiled and continued eating but then Romy’s smile faded and shockingly looked at a brown haired girl younger than him, walking by to find food in the bin. The young boy stood ,let the girl sit beside him on our table and gave some food to the young girl named Marie, the young girl was shyly paraded forward by a beaming Romy! We really enjoyed ourselves and got along together.

The day has gone beautifully, and the sight of the beaming faces of Katrina and the children are stuck in my head. We all got along together and even made new friends! Kindness connects us. To show kindness is to reach out . To receive kindness is to accept and connect. Do not lose sight of the fact that simple acts of kindness and caring for others creates an endless ripple effect that comes back to you.

[canadachronicles]

"Tell yourself as it gets cold and gray falls from the air that you will go on walking, hearing the same tune no matter where you find yourself -- inside the dome of dark or under the cracking white of the moon's gaze in a valley of snow. Tonight as it gets cold tell yourself what you know which is nothing but the tune your bones play as you keep going. And you will be able for once to lie down under the small fire of winter stars. And if it happens that you cannot go on or turn back and you find yourself where you will be at the end, tell yourself in that final flowing of cold through your limbs that you love what you are."

--Lines For Winter, Mark Strand.

It is getting colder and colder, and there is something comforting, warming even, about reading Mark Strand's Lines For Winter.

[dayang-dayang]

Adaptation of

The Blue Blood of the Big Astana

I was not always the man that I am right now. These titles that I have were hard-earned to not just be called a man with only a harelip. It was when I was five-years-old that I was orphaned. Being turned over to the Datu’s care due to Babo—my aunt— being unable to sustain for the both of us, there were things that needed to be done. I cried and pleaded with all might. I couldn’t bear to be separated with my only family. She coaxed me with her tender eyes and soothing hands, and led me into thinking that I can have everything I want if I just go to the Datu. As a child, who doesn’t want that? As tractable as I was, my mind was now drifting to the possibility of getting to feel the warmth of shared meals and build a happy childhood in my new home. Determination and desperation were etched in Babo’s face, but as young as I was, I didn’t even notice. My departure would relieve her from the burden of me.

Before we began our long walk, she washed me clean and taught me the royal, traditional ways on how to act in the Astana. That short time seemed so long that it got me irritable— so many things to remember for a five-year-old. But as we strolled down the muddied path, she humored me with all the things about the Astana. She told me about how we are different from each other. There I find myself back to being talkative again.

When we arrived at the Astana, the Datu and his wife greeted us so warmly— the young daughter too with her unrestrained laughter. His daughter, oh yes! A fine young princess my age, with laughter as sweet as the birds and skin as pale as sampaguita- I kissed the back of her hand to pay respect. She was indeed different compared to me— she was a blue blood, while I was just an orphaned boy with a deformity. She immediately withdrew her hand from my kiss. It seemed that my harelip tickled her.

My Babo eventually had to leave. But she came back as she promised. She visited me every week and his majesty had a lot of good things to tell her. Sometimes, the little princess would even chime in and use that chance to make fun of me again. I would gladly let her so. Aside from I had no right about anything, I would just let her be because that’s my way of being thankful— to let her smile and laugh, even to the expense of my entire being. However, it only lasted for 2 years before death took my Babo away. I was alone again.

But at least, there she was, my little blue blood. Her acquaintance has brought me comfort. I was her favorite and she wanted to play with me always. That gave me so much purpose and something to look forward to. She became the reason why I changed. 

Our youth spent on beaches waging war against the waves, picking up peculiar shells, diving up for sea-urchins or run along the long stretch of white, glaring sand. I, behind her— admiring her soft, nimble feet and her silky hair flying under the comforting sun. Sometimes, I would be climbing trees for the young princess, and she would worry for me. That hint of kindness I get from her whimpering voice telling me to come down while threatening to report me to her Appah. Those were the fleeting times, ephemeral as the wild vines. In no time, she grew up into a fine young lady.

She entered school and that’s when I took on the role of being an Epang-Epang. See? Wasn’t I a good servant? I was her escort, water-carrier, a friend she could play with. I was a clown she could laugh at, and even took on all the pain of her teacher’s lashings. I was like a faithful, loving dog following its mistress with light steps and a singing heart. My seemingly innocent, impish sort of liking turned into a serious adoration—I apparently was willing to do everything for my Dayang-Dayang. But who am I but just a servant with a harelip, to have a right to take her hand in marriage? While she was entering school, she was also being tutored at home for maidenhood. We were of such contrasting patterns. Even the lovely way she looked—the big Astana where she lived—the blood she had… Not even the fingers of Allah perhaps could weave our fabrics into equality. I had to content myself with the privilege of gazing frequently at her peerless loveliness. An ugly servant must not go beyond his little border.

In no time, Dayang-Dayang’s hand was asked for marriage by no one else but the man of her own kind- a young Datu with brains and brawns, ruler over a vast territory in the east, commanding both wealth and military might, with the same blue blood that she have— the perfect husband to take over her father’s place.

At the day of her wedding, people had crowded the princess’ Astana early in the morning to help prepare for the precious and wonderful event. I, Jaafar, stood upon the palace balcony. The sun, a benevolent sovereign, painted the city below in hues of amber and rose, heralding the momentous union of Dayang-Dayang, the jewel of Astana, with a destiny whispered by the Fates themselves. By the time the chariot of the sun finally rested on the horizon, the ceremony commenced with lively spirits.

In the courtyard, Dayang-Dayang stood beneath an arch adorned with fragrant blooms, a goddess in mortal form. Her betrothed stood at the precipice of fate, his eyes aglow with admiration. I draped in the shadows, observed with a heart heavy with secrets, my gaze an unspoken tribute to her celestial allure. The ceremony unfolded like a sacred dance, vows exchanged amidst the fragrance of blossoms and the symphony of approval from the celestial orbs.

And so, with a heavy heart and a gaze that betrayed the ache within, I, Jaafar, watched the culmination of a love story that was never mine to claim, my wounded soul an invisible casualty in the tapestry of this grand celebration. After I saw her and so does she, I ran quickly as I could, for I couldn't escape the pang of bittersweet longing that clutched at the chambers of my heart. Her laughter, a melody that once danced in the corridors of my solitude, now echoed as a distant refrain—a haunting reminder of a love forbidden.

No longer confined to the humble role of a servant, I, Jaafar, have ascended to the pinnacle of prosperity, my coffers brimming with the fruits of my endeavors, a testament to the transformative dance of fate and ambition. I could have married someone else, but I couldn’t find someone keen and lovely princess like her.

The relentless Wheel of Time, guided by Allah, spun its threads, and one fateful day, her husband found himself confined in San Ramon Penal Farm, Zamboanga. He, driven by a desire for an independent realm, had clashed with the Christian government, oblivious to the protective embrace that taxes offered. In this tumult, lives were lost, her Appah perished, possessions seized, and the Blue Blood, along with her mother, succumbed to a heart burdened with sorrow.

I went to Bonbon for business purposes. I encountered her after epochs felt like a cosmic symphony resonating through the very fabric of time. At first glance, I couldn’t recognize her for she’s not the blue blood princess I know. She didn’t recognize me too. However, when she saw my harelip smiling at her, a resurrection of a bygone era unfurled a garden of emotions within my chest, each petal blooming with the hues of longing and recognition. Under the cerulean sky, the echoes of our shared history resonated in the hushed whispers of the wind, weaving a tapestry of love and loss. One of her sons came and ask who I am. I said, “I am your mother’s servant. I am but a wanderer, retracing the steps of a dance we once shared.” As I prepared to leave, the streets seemed to embrace me with a bittersweet embrace, and the city itself whispered its silent goodbyes.

Back to the present, as I am walking along, a fleeting thought flickered in the recesses of my mind — the desire to sweep Dayang-Dayang away, to cradle her in the arms of my journey. But then I remembered, I am nothing but a servant serving a blue blood princess. The decision to continue my journey alone, leaving Dayang-Dayang to the embrace of the city she called home, gave me a heavy heart. And so, with a final, lingering gaze at the city that cradled both our stories, I brushed all my thoughts away from her and resumed my solitary journey. The footsteps that had once echoed with the hope of a shared destiny now resonated with the rhythm of acceptance.

[matchadobo]

this is from may day eve by nick joaquin.

tHOSE LINES??? UMMM IT'S SO ENEMIES TO LOVERS MANNNN 🥰 it reminds me of the line from 10 things i hate abt you, the one that goes "i hate that i don't hate you, not even once, not even a little bit, not even at all." pRETTY SURE I BUTCHERED THAT BUT THAT'S MY POINT!!

i'm motivated to write something like this!! the fact that you're so whipped for the person you detest so much is so ironic and endearing and omg he just like me.

like the way he finds her endearing while masking it as annoyance UGH treating her like she's the most beautiful thing while claiming he 'hates' her

but yes this reminds me of kidd, he be describing his lover like that to his grandkids i fucking bet!!

[have-you-read-this-short-fiction]

"Especially Heinous: 272 Views of Law & Order SVU" is available to read here

[jun-tabuan]

[edwardian-girl-next-door]

~ Nicole Sealey, "Object Permenance"

[text id: There's a name for the animal // love makes of us -- named, I think, / like rain, for the sound it makes" /end id]

[irishdancel]

"The Valley of Amazement"

“The Valley of Amazement" by Amy Tan. It centers on a woman with extra fingers and the people around her who decided to amputate it without her consent. I learned the importance of embracing and loving oneself from this excerpt.

What exactly does it mean to be true to oneself? To me, happiness and freedom in life come from being true to yourself. If you just believe in yourself and disregard what other people say, you'll be able to live the life you desire and become more sensitive to your feelings. You may concentrate on yourself and your personal development if you are truthful to yourself. It may boost your self-confidence and help you embrace who you are.

[jojoshblog]

Who would expect a traditional Filipino dish, such as sinigang, can be used as a way to narrate a very sensitive topic. "Sinigang," a short story by Marie Aubrey J. Villaceran, was discussed by our 21st century literature teacher. This story, as I thought, is just a motivational story for the learners, but I was wrong. The story is about extra-marital affair, which for me is a sensitive topic, because I have friends who also experienced this, and whenever this topic came up, the atmosphere around us becomes heavy. Although it is sensitive, it is necessary to be discussed because our present generation sees love as only a game. The story has a lot of moral values that our generation can take and apply in real life. Lessons, such as to forgive, to love, and to move on, are just some of the many more moral values you can take from the "Sinigang ". Like the title of the short story, the most impactful value I got from it is not common. The mistake that the protagonist's father did is the lesson that got stuck in my mind. Imagine having to eat your favorite sinigang with your happy and lovely family. You are talking about each other's life and you are delightful because of the delicious sinigang that your daughter cooked for you. Then that happy, lovely family became gloomy and sad because of your action. You committed adultery. Now you are saying a bunch of excuses for your crime but it is all nonsense. Your family may forgive your action, but it will now became forever carved in their minds.This very thought is the reason why it is a valuable lesson for me. As a 21st century learner, the mistake that the protagonist's father did is a very powerful reminder for my generation that love is not a game. My peers take love as a joke. They are going to be in a relationship because they are bored or just want the feel of it. The lesson I got from the story is a message for my generation and for everyone as well that love is about loyal and must not be rushed.

[liaaaannee]

An Ode To My Youth

They say we're shooting stars

Children wish for in their dreams

But what would eternity call it,

instead of nothing but a farce?

Our light burns so bright,

Faster than the speed of sound

But it's extinguished in a blink

and all that's left behind

is a memory of its glory.

finite beings in an infinite universe,

we search for something to hold on to

but everything we touch turns to dust.

And yet we still try

To build something that will last

but it all crumbles in our hands.

Our time is but a moment

A single flicker in the grand scheme of things

But we try to make it last

by holding on to what we love.

And even though we know

That everything fades away eventually,

We still can't help but hope

That our light will shine on forever.

So, I say to you, dear little girl

Be wary of your wishes in turn.

With one red fruit, you'll succumb

To that devoid chaos, we burn.

And with one red fruit

You'll be cursed to wonder and yearn.

For what could have beens

and what might never be.

So, I say to you now,

Be careful what you wish for.

It just might come true.

Be gay. Be comfortable. Be free.

Long before the monster becomes your only friend

Because there are far worse hells to endure

Than a mere entity under your bed.

Long before you can no longer see the beauty in the world,

And all you're left with is endless pain and hurt.

I say to you now, while you're still young and naïve

Enjoy your time while it lasts.

Make the most of every moment

Before it's gone in a flash.

Life is too short to waste

On things that don't matter.

So, go out and live

Like there's no tomorrow.

And thus, what I learned is to be believed.

Youth is fleeting, but that's not a bad thing.

Its beauty is its stupidity, the utter hypocrisy.

Because it's how we learn and don't abide

by society's dumb prophecies.

And to all the kids who think they're invincible

You might be, but not for long.

That's why you should make the most of it

Before it's gone in a flash like a song.

So, be brave. Be kind. Be strong.

And never forget how to dream big.

For we are but shooting stars

Fading away into the night.

And even though our time is brief,

We should still try to make it bright.

So, I say to you now,

Go out and shine like the sun.

And never let anyone tell you

You can't reach for the stars.

[jeaellag]

Puppy Love

There is something so pure.

Falling for someone new

A new feeling

I can't get through

Our small talks, shy smiles

small gestures that lift my heart high.

It's like being on cloud 9 all the time.

That's what we like, right?

No fights, just bright smiles.

It's like blind love.

We only see what we like.

No flaws, just pure hearts.

You like me, I like you. 

That is what we only knew. 

Our immature, heedless, young love 

I know this won't last.

But this memory I will cherish till the last.

[diaz09]

"Apo on the wall"

In the poem "Apo on the Wall," a child's perspective on his rigorous father is narrated. I like the poem because it gives a glimpse of life under martial law. I can say that I am both satisfied and a little sad about the poem because I believe that martial law affected certain people, but I also believe that martial law had some positive effects. After all, it helped some Filipinos become more respectable and disciplined. The message I got from this is that we should be respectful and responsible in life because it is very important. The poem mentions several events that occurred at the time, and I can say that it has slightly changed my appreciation of the past and the present. I can say that it changed some of my beliefs and understanding, though there are still some aspects of my appreciation that haven't changed. I really don't know what exactly happened during that time, but I still believe that it had a positive impact because it helped make Filipinos more disciplined. It's just a little disheartening that some people have to be killed and tortured for them to be punished, but I still have a doubt that maybe there is a reason why they torment some individuals because, maybe because they also have a sin, I believe they wouldn't take any action that would harm the populace. If there's no reason, I'm not really sure what occurred during that period. I believe that only God knows what is true.