ANDRES BONIFACIO COLLEGE
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
ANALYSIS ON RIZAL’S BEST POEMS
An Analysis Paper presented to
Mr. Roseller V. Reginan Jr.
As partial requirement for the subject
RIZAL 121 / Rizal’s Life, Works, and Writings
ARIEL JAY B. ADAVAN
BSCE SE 1-B / MW 10:30 - 12:00 P.M
MAY 2024
Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: Sa Aking Mga Kabata
José Rizal’s Sa Aking Mga Kabata is a nationalistic and idealistic poem that passionately
encourages young Filipinos to love, honor, and take pride in their native language. Although
traditionally believed to have been written by Rizal at the age of eight, the authorship has been
the subject of scholarly debate due to questions surrounding the poem’s language and historical
context. Regardless of its origin, the poem remains a powerful piece that continues to resonate
with Filipinos today.
Central to the poem is the idea that language is more than just a tool for communication it is the
essence of a people’s identity, culture, and dignity. The famous line, “Ang hindi magmahal sa
kanyang wika ay mahigit pa sa hayop at malansang isda,” delivers a strong metaphor that
criticizes those who neglect their own language, likening them to creatures devoid of honor. This
line serves as a moral and patriotic call to preserve the Filipino identity through the protection
and use of the native tongue.
The analysis emphasizes Rizal’s belief that the youth are the future of the nation. Through the
poem, he urges the younger generation to embrace their cultural roots and recognize their vital
role in shaping a better society. This sense of duty, according to scholars like Ocampo (2009), is
grounded in a deep understanding of one's heritage and the collective history of the Filipino
people. Rizal saw cultural awareness and education as fundamental to national development and
reform.
Another major theme in the poem is the strong correlation between language and freedom. Rizal
argues that a nation that respects and upholds its language fosters a stronger sense of
independence and unity. According to Schumacher (1991), this belief reflects Rizal’s lifelong
advocacy for enlightenment and societal reform through intellectual and moral progress. The
poem suggests that true sovereignty cannot exist without cultural self-respect and linguistic
pride.
Despite doubts about the true authorship of Sa Aking Mga Kabata, the core values it
upholdspatriotism, cultural pride, youth empowerment, and the essential role of language in
nation-building remain relevant. The message transcends authorship and continues to serve as a
foundational reminder of the importance of preserving Filipino identity in the face of
globalization and colonial legacy.
In conclusion, Sa Aking Mga Kabata is not just a poem, but a timeless call to action for every
Filipino, especially the youth, to honor their roots, cherish their language, and contribute to the
nation's growth with pride and purpose.
Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: My Inspiration
My Inspiration is a deeply personal and emotionally rich poem that offers a rare glimpse into the
intimate inner world of José Rizal, the Philippine national hero. Unlike his more well-known,
nationalistic writings, this poem shifts focus from patriotism to personal affection and gratitude.
Written during his youth, My Inspiration is believed to be dedicated to someone very close to
him possibly his mother, Teodora Alonso, whose influence was instrumental in shaping his
values and intellect (Guerrero, 1963).
The poem is characterized by its tender tone and use of gentle imagery. Rizal refers to the subject
as a "star" and a "guide," powerful metaphors that reflect the emotional safety, moral direction,
and intellectual clarity that this person provided him. These symbols highlight the subject's role
as both a beacon in difficult times and a steady source of strength, shaping Rizal’s ambitions and
principles. This connection between personal influence and personal growth is a recurring theme
in Rizal’s early writings.
Historian Ambeth Ocampo (2009) supports this interpretation, pointing out that Rizal’s
upbringing particularly the influence of his mother was central to his moral development and
intellectual awakening. In My Inspiration, this theme becomes apparent as Rizal attributes his
thoughts, ideals, and dreams to the nurturing presence of his muse. The poem becomes a quiet
but powerful acknowledgment of how deeply one’s inner world can be shaped by love and
encouragement from significant relationships.
The emotional tone of the poem contrasts sharply with the assertive, reformist tone of Rizal's
later works like Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. While those works are aimed at societal
awakening and political change, My Inspiration is introspective and sincere, highlighting the
foundational emotional experiences that would later fuel his commitment to justice and freedom.
This contrast demonstrates that Rizal was not only a national figure but also a deeply reflective
individual whose personal relationships played a crucial role in the formation of his identity and
convictions.
Moreover, the poem’s universal theme of finding strength and purpose through love makes it
relatable to a broad audience. It reminds us that behind every great figure lies a network of
support, often in the form of a parent, teacher, or mentor. My Inspiration serves as a tribute to
those quiet yet powerful forces that mold individuals into leaders and visionaries.
In conclusion, My Inspiration is more than a youthful poem it is an expression of heartfelt
gratitude and emotional maturity. It sheds light on the softer side of José Rizal, emphasizing that
the roots of his heroism were deeply anchored in personal love, familial bonds, and the
inspiration drawn from those who guided him early in life. This poem enriches our
understanding of Rizal not only as a hero of the nation but also as a son, a dreamer, and a deeply
emotional human being.
Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: To the Filipino Youth
Written in 1879 when José Rizal was only 18, To the Filipino Youth is a powerful and visionary
poem that highlights his early dedication to Filipino nationalism and the vital role of the youth in
shaping the nation’s future. Composed in Spanish and awarded first prize in a literary contest by
the Liceo Artístico-Literario de Manila, the poem earned admiration even from Spanish judges.
In the poem, Rizal calls the Filipino youth the "fair hope of my motherland," urging them to use
their talents, intellect, and education to uplift the country from ignorance and colonial
oppression. He emphasizes the value of knowledge, science, and the arts as instruments of
national progress, believing that young people have the power to lead meaningful change.
While avoiding direct political statements likely to ensure acceptance during Spanish colonial
rule. Rizal cleverly uses metaphors, such as "chains," to subtly critique oppression and call for
liberation through self-betterment and learning.
The poem remains timeless for its universal themes of youth empowerment, education, and
national pride. It continues to inspire Filipinos to embrace their heritage and become active
contributors to the nation's development, affirming Rizal’s vision of youth as key agents of
change and hope for the country’s future.
Poem Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: They Ask Me for Verses
Written in 1882 during his stay in Madrid, José Rizal’s “They Ask Me for Verses” is a deeply
personal and emotional poem that reflects his sense of exile, creative struggle, and longing for
his homeland. Composed at the request of the Circulo Hispano-Filipino and recited at a New
Year’s Eve gathering, the poem captures Rizal’s emotional desolation and the difficulty of
creating art under the weight of colonial oppression.
The poem opens with the metaphor of a broken lyre, symbolizing Rizal’s creative paralysis and
emotional exhaustion. His muse is silent, highlighting his loss of inspiration, brought on by
homesickness and inner conflict. Throughout the poem, Rizal expresses deep nostalgia for the
Philippines, referring to himself as “a scarce-grown plant… uprooted from the Orient.” This
image illustrates his profound sense of displacement and emotional separation from his roots.
Rizal recalls his youthful passion for glorifying his country through poetry, once aiming to
“propagate her renown” across the world. However, his current reality as an exiled poet leaves
him disheartened and unable to fulfill that dream. The poem ends in despair, with Rizal likening
himself to a “tree despoiled and shriveled,” reflecting his emotional decay and sense of
purposelessness away from his homeland.
“They Ask Me for Verses” is not only a poignant reflection of Rizal’s personal sorrow but also a
broader commentary on the emotional toll of colonialism. It reveals the inner conflict of a patriot
and artist whose love for his country remains strong, even as distance and oppression make
expressing that love increasingly painful. The poem remains a powerful testament to how exile
and disconnection can silence even the most passionate voices, yet also deepen the emotional
resonance of their art.
Poem Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: To the Flowers of Heidelberg
José Rizal’s To the Flowers of Heidelberg, written on April 24, 1886, while he was studying
medicine in Germany, is a deeply emotional and symbolic poem that captures the intense
homesickness, patriotism, and inner conflict of the national hero. Set against the scenic beauty of
the Neckar River in Heidelberg, the poem uses nature—particularly the blooming spring flowers
—as a metaphor for his emotional connection to his homeland, the Philippines.
In the poem, Rizal speaks to the foreign flowers around him, asking them to travel to his beloved
Philippines and deliver a message of love, remembrance, and loyalty. This poetic gesture
symbolizes his inability to return home physically, while maintaining a strong emotional and
spiritual bond with his country through nature and verse. The flowers serve as messengers of
memory and devotion, representing Rizal’s enduring connection to his roots despite his
geographical distance.
Rizal contrasts the serene, orderly life he experiences in Europe with the colonial suffering of the
Philippines under Spanish rule. The peaceful environment of Germany only intensifies his
longing and guilt, knowing that while he enjoys academic freedom and natural beauty abroad, his
fellow Filipinos continue to struggle. This contrast is not only emotional but symbolic—he sees
the flowers of Heidelberg as beautiful but foreign, just as he feels increasingly out of place and
disconnected from his homeland.
A powerful metaphor in the poem is Rizal’s fear that, like flowers transplanted into foreign soil,
he might lose his “fragrance” or essence the longer he stays abroad. The line “But far from your
native heroic earth... your fragrances you will lose” speaks to a growing anxiety that physical
separation could dull his sense of identity, mission, and purpose. This metaphor captures a
central theme of exile: the fear of cultural loss and the fading of patriotic spirit in unfamiliar
surroundings.
The poem also conveys Rizal’s deepening realization that true service to the motherland often
involves sacrifice. Though he is expanding his knowledge and preparing to help the Philippines
in the long term, he feels incomplete, burdened by guilt and a sense of urgency. His soft, lyrical
language carries an undertone of sorrow, expressing the emotional cost of being far from his
people during a time of national need.
Ultimately, To the Flowers of Heidelberg is more than a reflection of homesickness. It is a
symbolic meditation on exile, cultural identity, and national loyalty. The flowers become more
than just objects of beauty; they embody Rizal’s ideals, emotional burdens, and hopes. The poem
resonates not only with those in physical exile, but also with anyone who feels the emotional
strain of being far from their origins. It reminds readers that even across great distances, love for
one’s country and the desire to serve can remain alive and deeply rooted.
Poem Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: The Song of Maria Clara
José Rizal’s The Song of Maria Clara (Canto de María Clara), featured in Chapter 23 of his
novel Noli Me Tangere, is a poignant expression of patriotism, maternal affection, and the deep
connection between national identity and the homeland. Sung by the character María Clara, the
poem is not only a personal reflection of her inner emotions but also reflects the collective
longing of the Filipino people under colonial oppression. It speaks to the emotional and
psychological effects of living under foreign rule, capturing the nation’s yearning for freedom,
self-determination, and the sacrifices that come with nationalism.
The poem opens with a vivid portrayal of the native land, evoking sensory imagery such as the
warmth of sunlight, the gentle breeze, and the tender embrace of love. These images are
powerful metaphors that highlight the deep sense of belonging and contentment derived from
one’s homeland. Rizal emphasizes the significance of the homeland as not just a physical space
but as a source of comfort, identity, and emotional nourishment. The connection to the land is
portrayed as both natural and essential to personal and collective identity.
In the second stanza, Rizal introduces maternal imagery to symbolize the nation as a nurturing
mother. The metaphor reinforces the idea of the motherland as a protective and comforting
figure, one that provides care, stability, and identity to its citizens. This imagery strengthens the
intimate bond between the people and their country, presenting the nation as both a physical and
emotional anchor for its people.
The final stanza presents a sharp contrast, focusing on the despair of statelessness. Rizal
articulates the anguish and isolation of being deprived of a national identity and familial
connections, portraying it as a form of spiritual and emotional death. This evokes the tragic
experience of colonized peoples who are separated from their roots and heritage, unable to assert
their dignity and humanity under foreign rule.
One of the most significant aspects of the poem is Rizal’s choice of María Clara, a character
often seen as demure, passive, and traditionally feminine, to voice these profound patriotic
sentiments. This decision is both symbolic and strategic. By attributing such powerful,
nationalistic lines to María Clara, Rizal challenges traditional gender roles, elevating the
feminine voice in the discourse of nation-building. María Clara’s character, although often
idealized as the epitome of womanly virtue, is also portrayed as capable of deep emotional
insight and patriotic fervor. In doing so, Rizal underscores the role women play in the cultural
and political formation of a nation.
Additionally, the poem’s structure and lyrical quality resemble the traditional Filipino kundiman,
a genre known for its emotive melodies and themes of love, longing, and sacrifice. This
alignment enhances the poem’s cultural resonance, grounding it in Filipino musical and poetic
traditions. By using this form, Rizal not only conveys personal yearning but also connects the
longing for freedom to broader Filipino cultural expressions of devotion, sacrifice, and love for
the homeland.
Poem Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: The Song of the Traveler
José Rizal’s poem The Song of the Traveler (El Canto del Viajero), written during his exile in
Dapitan in 1895, serves as a poignant exploration of exile, alienation, and the deep emotional toll
of being separated from one’s homeland. Through the use of rich, vivid imagery, Rizal conveys
the inner turmoil of a wanderer who, despite traveling across the world, feels spiritually
unmoored and disconnected. The poem speaks to the universal experience of displacement and
the longing for belonging, making it resonate not only with Rizal's personal feelings but with
anyone who has faced the pain of exile or separation from their roots.
The poem opens with a powerful metaphor: the wanderer is likened to a withered leaf, tossed
aimlessly by a tempest. This image captures the disorientation and confusion often felt by those
who find themselves estranged from their native land. The wanderer’s journey, while physically
extensive, lacks purpose and fulfillment, mirroring the emotional void that accompanies such a
profound sense of dislocation. The poet reflects on the futility of the wanderer's pursuit of
happiness, comparing joy to a shadow, fleeting and elusive.
Rizal delves deeply into the emotional landscape of the traveler, describing the solitude and
melancholy that accompany such a journey. The only comfort the traveler finds are memories of
loved ones and the happier times of home. These nostalgic recollections serve as the sole
companions in an otherwise lonely existence, highlighting how deeply one’s homeland shapes
their sense of self and identity. The poet also reflects on the painful possibility that, upon
returning to the homeland, it may no longer be the same. The land and people may have changed,
and the traveler may find himself unable to reconnect with the country he once knew,
underscoring the irreversible passage of time and the grief that comes with it.
In the concluding stanzas, Rizal urges the traveler to accept his fate and continue his journey. He
emphasizes that even if the wanderer returns to his homeland, he will always remain an outsider,
forever marked by his time in exile. This bittersweet realization underscores the internal conflict
of those who are forced to leave their homeland—no matter where they go, they are forever
shaped by their separation and cannot fully return to the place they once knew.
Ultimately, The Song of the Traveler serves as a deeply emotional reflection on the nature of
exile, identity, and the painful search for belonging. Rizal’s own experience of living abroad as a
Filipino nationalist imbues the poem with authenticity and sincerity. It speaks to the universal
experience of feeling disconnected, not just from one’s home, but from one’s identity and sense
of self. The poem highlights the emotional cost of exile, with its themes of nostalgia, loss, and
the inescapable truth that time and distance often change both the traveler and the homeland they
once loved. Through this work, Rizal captures the deep ache of being a wanderer, disconnected
from the land of one’s birth, and the internal conflict between yearning for home and accepting
the inevitability of change.
Analysis on Rizal’s Poem: Hymn to Labor
José Rizal’s “Hymn to Labor” (Himno al Trabajo), written in 1888, celebrates the industrious
spirit of the Filipino people, particularly the residents of Lipa, Batangas, upon the city’s
elevation to city status. The poem emphasizes the dignity of labor and its crucial role in nation-
building, portraying work as a noble pursuit that sustains both family and country. Through this
work, Rizal highlights the importance of unity and collective effort in fostering progress.
The poem is divided into stanzas addressing different societal groups—men, wives, maidens, and
children—each illustrating their contributions to national progress. The men are depicted as the
backbone of agricultural labor, enduring hardship to support their families and country, and their
work is framed as both a duty and privilege. The wives are shown as caretakers of the home,
instilling virtues of love, knowledge, and patriotism in their children, while the maidens express
admiration for industriousness and value hard work in suitors. The children, eager to learn from
their elders, recognize that honoring ancestors is done through diligence, not rituals, and aspire to
continue the legacy of labor.
The recurring chorus, “For the Motherland in war, For the Motherland in peace, Will the Filipino
keep watch, He will live until life will cease!” reinforces the theme of unwavering dedication to
the nation, suggesting that true patriotism is embodied through consistent and selfless service to
the country. Rizal’s portrayal of every Filipino’s role in nation-building—whether through
farming, nurturing, or teaching—serves as a reminder that progress depends on the collective
effort of all people.
In conclusion, “Hymn to Labor” is more than just a celebration of work; it is a call to unity and
shared responsibility in building a prosperous nation. Through the lens of everyday labor, Rizal
shows that true patriotism lies in the commitment to one's duties and the belief that through hard
work, each person can contribute to a better future for the country. The poem serves as a tribute
to the enduring value of labor in shaping the identity, strength, and future of a nation.
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