AILIE A.

ABARCA CEED-1
LIT 10: REACTION PAPER (MANILA AND BYZANTIUM)

Philippines is one of the countries renowned for its vibrant cultures and varied forms
of literature— from poems to other creatively made crafts, have greatly portrayed country's
richness in terms of literary works. Behind the Filipino literatures, are the creative authors,
whose imaginations are the backbones of every piece they have produced. Many individuals
have asserted that since Philippines' primary language is Filipino, the standardized form of
Tagalog, then it should be the proper language to use as a medium in writing, especially as
part of producing Philippine literature.
In the story, it has been discussed that the author concurs with the integration of
foreign languages, especially English in Filipino literary expression. It further tackles the
factors which led to English, the mode of instruction influenced by the Americans, becoming
a prominent language in Philippine literature in the present time. The author's stance is that
there's nothing wrong with writing and composing literary works using English language
since it also reflects the richness of history where Philippine islands were once the colonies
of an English speaking country.
While some may view the use of English in Filipino literary works as a departure from
tradition, I stand in favor of embracing the foreign language as a valuable tool in giving
expansion to the horizons of Philippine literature. For me, I agree with the author's side in
the story because English language plays a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing the
country's creation. Filipino writers are not strictly mandated to write through their native
languages only, for their creativity extends beyond linguistic boundaries. It just implies that
the greatness of Philippine in literature not only lies on the use of own or native languages
when writing, but the writer's ability and artistry in producing a work of literary arts in any
languages they feel comfortable with, which significantly affects the overall appearance of
their works and adds to the abundance of the literature. Also, I firmly believe that every
literary work, regardless of the language used, conveys feelings and emotions expressed by
the writers where their unsaid words are spoken through writing.
Additionally, the story tells a lesson which explores that there is nothing intrinsically
impossible about great literature being written in an alien tongue. From this, I have realized
that using English language does not mean neglecting and ignoring Philippines' cultural
identity and own language, but a way of fostering a literature composed of diversity,
creativity, and excellence.
Furthermore, incorporating English language in Filipino literary works helps reach a
wider audience and promotes cross-cultural understanding. This paves way to allowing
Filipino writers to connect with diverse people globally through their narratives written in
English. It will then lead to the appreciation for the rich literary heritage of the Philippines,
showcasing Filipinos' talents and skills.
So, as an individual and a Filipino with patriotism, I stand in the bright side of being in
favor of the integration of English language in the field of literature for a reason that Filipinos
are capable of connecting hearts and minds through the universal language of storytelling.
Lastly, a real patriot not only focuses on the use of their own or native languages, but
also having the arms to embrace other languages like English. Similarly, a great literature is
not only gauged by valuing own mediums, but the power of paying attention to the other that
fuels diversity and creativity of what is called ‘rich and vibrant Philippine literature’ that we
are molding.