Ampalaya is a nutritious source of vitamins and minerals for us. It is a vegetable in which we Filipinos make a lot of delicacies. Although the taste is bitter and others think of it as a repulsive excuse for a vegetable, others make it with their staple food of rice and fish and even meat.
The story of "ampalaya" is set on the Philippines during the year 2050 where global warming is rampant and corporations own and have rights over almost anything in the world, even nature. The main character is the common Filipino man "Juan Dela Cruz", a little slow on the technology part and just wants to live a simple life for him and his family planting ampalaya and serving it to coming guests.
From what I understand, Juan Dela Cruz could be anyone of us and the story depicts the horrible future for our country, controlled by other countries with technology being primitive and scarce. Not everyone can have the luxury of it and even the hierarchy of the politics come into play, even right now, it happens.
Th author may have used the style to depict the subtle reality which are happening right now and expand it on a future scale, the style of a post-apocalyptic is very effective, and not those stupid future epics where everyone wheres white and silver and has fluorescent lights all over the place, I mean I could have that at my place and claim its futuristic and out of this world!
Going back to the story, Juan Dela Cruz was executed for illegally planting Ampalaya and somehow it seems bad, but the idea of commercialism has it bad and nature has been contained, Germans give solar panels to mountain folks and planting ampalaya could have you killed like you were planting drugs or something. The future really is weird and thank God when that time comes, I would be old and not care at all I think...
Sadly, the future of the country is very bleak and the predictions made by the story may exist in the coming years!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Magz ni Pico
Who wouldn't love Magnifico, I cried, others were just too much of a stone to be penetrated by the drama. I guess what the movie depicts a lot of reality here at the Filipino culture. There is drama, comedy and a silce of life which is poverty here in the country and how we Filipinos just smile and take things easily knowing they could live another day and solve it along the way.
The movie Magnifico is set on the rural areas in the country I guess paete laguna and the time is here in the 20th century. The story revolves around the child's point-of-view and how Maginifico solves his problems with what he sees as the solution. In their poverty, the adults act so complicated, but form his eyes, he solves them the way he thinks should be the way nothing more, pretty cool right?
seeing the potential in each and everyone of the people there, he never fails with his charm and in the process, winning them.
The movie Magnifico is set on the rural areas in the country I guess paete laguna and the time is here in the 20th century. The story revolves around the child's point-of-view and how Maginifico solves his problems with what he sees as the solution. In their poverty, the adults act so complicated, but form his eyes, he solves them the way he thinks should be the way nothing more, pretty cool right?
seeing the potential in each and everyone of the people there, he never fails with his charm and in the process, winning them.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Getting better at making smaller and smaller circles
On this world, people have 2 roles, either be the problem or the solution. In some cases, it is the helper and the helpee. On my perspective, getting better is like a " how to" manual or "for dummies" book. The book is set on the popular culture since it is hip, it is published in a magazine, and the idea of it fall under our time on which a lot can relate to is just brilliant!
The story is set on Karen who has problems in her lovelife, career, family well basically we also face in life. The story revolves on Karen narrating tips and tricks whenever she falls in a situation which needs a fix. One thing I liked about the text is that the setting is based here in our time, with very significant places which are common here in the country and outside the country.
Although I did not like the way the author used as hints to find out if a person is gay, it is very stereotypical from my perspective I mean some of the descriptions there was something I can relate to so would that mean I am gay? And the idea of having the ideal buddy in the sense of miko is just wrong, we male people have distinctions and we just don't give in to what we want, we are also sensitive creatures and we also have the right to be irrational once in a while!
If this were hip before and the characters from the other texts read this, they could have done something better.
As an individual, I loved reading or watching mystery or perhaps horror and detective work. I mostly watch gore like Saw, Hannibal, Silence of the Lambs etc. and the last book I read was Angels and Demons by Dan Brown so I guess I could enjoy the book "smaller and smaller circles" but I felt a sense of being stupified along the way. Who would put Priests in a crime investigation with a lot of characters which was better even if you didn't add them at all.
I liked the idea of having murder being the theme for the Philippines, but lets get real, a killing in payatas would be like a normal brawl in taguig and even if there were casualties, the police officers here in the country would just take it normally and write up a report.
The plot was okay I guess, but the twist and the case just left left me hanging, honestly when I read detective books, I feel as though I am intelligent as the main character and try to solve the case with my own understanding of the clues involved. But in smaller... the suspect was already there and the characters play out dumb and waited till the end where they then realize who the killer is, and irony the climax was too predictable that the killer would kill himself in a process. Much like foreshadowing, they said that the killer may either be dead or alive and they will go on a manhunt.
looking back, the main characters don't seem like the type of priests at all, it is like they were given the title but all through out the story, they were acting like common folk. But in a much deeper perspective, the story gave the feeling of teaching how the police force reacts here in the country. They have basis on where to act fast and so does the media which feeds on major controversies in the cities, but how about the provinces?!
I realized how poor our force was and how badly they take care of situations, the boundaries of rich and poor are clearly stated by our reactions such as the setting of the killings in payatas, we need to change that and that maybe the hidden meaning that the author wants to point out, to be aware and get involved. Somehow, it is connected to generations because there is a need for the government to act fast for their citizens.
The story is set on Karen who has problems in her lovelife, career, family well basically we also face in life. The story revolves on Karen narrating tips and tricks whenever she falls in a situation which needs a fix. One thing I liked about the text is that the setting is based here in our time, with very significant places which are common here in the country and outside the country.
Although I did not like the way the author used as hints to find out if a person is gay, it is very stereotypical from my perspective I mean some of the descriptions there was something I can relate to so would that mean I am gay? And the idea of having the ideal buddy in the sense of miko is just wrong, we male people have distinctions and we just don't give in to what we want, we are also sensitive creatures and we also have the right to be irrational once in a while!
If this were hip before and the characters from the other texts read this, they could have done something better.
As an individual, I loved reading or watching mystery or perhaps horror and detective work. I mostly watch gore like Saw, Hannibal, Silence of the Lambs etc. and the last book I read was Angels and Demons by Dan Brown so I guess I could enjoy the book "smaller and smaller circles" but I felt a sense of being stupified along the way. Who would put Priests in a crime investigation with a lot of characters which was better even if you didn't add them at all.
I liked the idea of having murder being the theme for the Philippines, but lets get real, a killing in payatas would be like a normal brawl in taguig and even if there were casualties, the police officers here in the country would just take it normally and write up a report.
The plot was okay I guess, but the twist and the case just left left me hanging, honestly when I read detective books, I feel as though I am intelligent as the main character and try to solve the case with my own understanding of the clues involved. But in smaller... the suspect was already there and the characters play out dumb and waited till the end where they then realize who the killer is, and irony the climax was too predictable that the killer would kill himself in a process. Much like foreshadowing, they said that the killer may either be dead or alive and they will go on a manhunt.
looking back, the main characters don't seem like the type of priests at all, it is like they were given the title but all through out the story, they were acting like common folk. But in a much deeper perspective, the story gave the feeling of teaching how the police force reacts here in the country. They have basis on where to act fast and so does the media which feeds on major controversies in the cities, but how about the provinces?!
I realized how poor our force was and how badly they take care of situations, the boundaries of rich and poor are clearly stated by our reactions such as the setting of the killings in payatas, we need to change that and that maybe the hidden meaning that the author wants to point out, to be aware and get involved. Somehow, it is connected to generations because there is a need for the government to act fast for their citizens.
D Generation X
What can I say, I was raised on a different upbringing in this world where my mind could flourish and become a solution or a cure for diseased society. After reading "Generations" I realized, I was still so naive with what I see in the world, although I must be strong for them because what happened in the story could be still alive here in the year 2008 or even in the next 10-20 or even 30 years.
I felt bad for the girl because she was raised to be take that kind of punishment and get revenge in the process like "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth". If got this right, it is around in the 1940s on the provinces where "pirates" and robbers take advantage of the weak farmers. Honestly what is the government doing during those times of crisis? Don't they know that their countrymen are in need of support?! This text shows how the government acts and how little they see things on the rural side, I guess from this stand point, the author wants us to be involved and realize what is truly happening here in our country.
I felt bad for the girl because she was raised to be take that kind of punishment and get revenge in the process like "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth". If got this right, it is around in the 1940s on the provinces where "pirates" and robbers take advantage of the weak farmers. Honestly what is the government doing during those times of crisis? Don't they know that their countrymen are in need of support?! This text shows how the government acts and how little they see things on the rural side, I guess from this stand point, the author wants us to be involved and realize what is truly happening here in our country.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Peter, The Spinster and the case of the hidden Documents
how can one say when the right time is now to move in and confess your love to the person you like? If ever one has to go through that, what approach is appropriate? Does it have to be planned? Or jump in the moment and scream to the world your feelings and not care anything in the world! At least that is what I felt when discussing about the story of "Document". About a guy who has a friend that he doesn't know how that person feels about her. From what I read there, the guy like the girl and is confused whether or not he likes her, and if he does like her, how will he approach her and not get rejected.
The main character is pretty much flat, kinda weak and very very cautious. If this were an anime, he will subjected to the weak mediocre type of male character genre. I got an idea of the character because of the way the reporter discusses it as if he is actually the main character, he acts as if he is but don't get me wrong, I found the discussion quite interesting because I too am like that, in some ways. I sometimes don't get it and just leave and nothing more. But I learn and adapt, but honestly, who knows when is the right time?
On the other story about the "Spinster and Peter pan" to be honest, just like what I commented on class, I honestly cannot live a life where in everything is in a routine for almost half of my life (even Ms. Dianne thinks so). I live in a life full of surprises, maybe that is why I am so colorful and animated hahaha! But going back, the lady or the heroine, at least she made choices which she enjoyed it.
I honestly found Peter Pan arrogant, perhaps pig-headed and self-centered when he approched the heroine, but then again, it looks as if Peter Pan was the lost personality of the main character, I mean those things are the one she lacks or has not experienced.
If I would relate this in the real world, people who missed their oppurtunities in life are the ones mostly portray this because of the regrets he/she experience. So in my opinion, age is not a reason for one to pursue their dreams or do something out of their routine.
After all, we only have one life, might as well enjoy it!
The main character is pretty much flat, kinda weak and very very cautious. If this were an anime, he will subjected to the weak mediocre type of male character genre. I got an idea of the character because of the way the reporter discusses it as if he is actually the main character, he acts as if he is but don't get me wrong, I found the discussion quite interesting because I too am like that, in some ways. I sometimes don't get it and just leave and nothing more. But I learn and adapt, but honestly, who knows when is the right time?
On the other story about the "Spinster and Peter pan" to be honest, just like what I commented on class, I honestly cannot live a life where in everything is in a routine for almost half of my life (even Ms. Dianne thinks so). I live in a life full of surprises, maybe that is why I am so colorful and animated hahaha! But going back, the lady or the heroine, at least she made choices which she enjoyed it.
I honestly found Peter Pan arrogant, perhaps pig-headed and self-centered when he approched the heroine, but then again, it looks as if Peter Pan was the lost personality of the main character, I mean those things are the one she lacks or has not experienced.
If I would relate this in the real world, people who missed their oppurtunities in life are the ones mostly portray this because of the regrets he/she experience. So in my opinion, age is not a reason for one to pursue their dreams or do something out of their routine.
After all, we only have one life, might as well enjoy it!
Love is like a battlefield, or was it a game?
when in a relationship, people tend to open up a new understanding in life and experience new things, things that might either make or break you. On my case, I really can't say anything because of the fact that I still haven't had a girlfriend or whatever it is you call them these days. I guess my time was not now or I am just picky or just uninterested and does not have the energy to venture or just afraid, in the end I don't know myself why? I am a healthy young man and I sometimes experience a bit jealous when I see couples going around holding hands and laughing like the world is their own private park without the care whatsoever. Then later I get hungry and eat then I forget about it and move on.
Going back, in the story of "Games" I don't know the reason why the girl did those things, perhaps she was bored or just playful? I really don't know at all. But it did helped in some ways to spice things in a bit and find out that her boyfriend was cheating with his ex-girlfriend. Then I ask myself, why do people go in a relationship then break up then look for again and the cycle goes on and on until you realized your tired and get married to the next person you see. I mean why do others have no commitment at all? Maybe that is one of the reasons why I can't see the point of having a girlfriend if it doesn't lead to an even deeper thing like marriage. Or perhaps I am just too old fashioned.
Let us go back, it is set in the 20th century that is for sure and the idea of a liberal society gives it more hints that it is. When I look back in the old days, people stick to one and they understand each other perfectly, well not perfect but at least they have an understanding. Now its so complicated that people are always on the fast track. Using technology to find new and better people and disregard old ones like in text messaging, IM, Friendster, Multiply and so on.
The character tends to lack self-esteem for herself and thus begin her bad habit. Her boyfriend didn't help at all and just made it worse by cheating on her. I don't know what to say anymore, others seem to take it normally nowadays as if it was just a norm, a phase or a culture. But I think we should change it, we create bonds with people in the world and create a fruitful experience with them. At least thats what I think or I am just being naive....
Going back, in the story of "Games" I don't know the reason why the girl did those things, perhaps she was bored or just playful? I really don't know at all. But it did helped in some ways to spice things in a bit and find out that her boyfriend was cheating with his ex-girlfriend. Then I ask myself, why do people go in a relationship then break up then look for again and the cycle goes on and on until you realized your tired and get married to the next person you see. I mean why do others have no commitment at all? Maybe that is one of the reasons why I can't see the point of having a girlfriend if it doesn't lead to an even deeper thing like marriage. Or perhaps I am just too old fashioned.
Let us go back, it is set in the 20th century that is for sure and the idea of a liberal society gives it more hints that it is. When I look back in the old days, people stick to one and they understand each other perfectly, well not perfect but at least they have an understanding. Now its so complicated that people are always on the fast track. Using technology to find new and better people and disregard old ones like in text messaging, IM, Friendster, Multiply and so on.
The character tends to lack self-esteem for herself and thus begin her bad habit. Her boyfriend didn't help at all and just made it worse by cheating on her. I don't know what to say anymore, others seem to take it normally nowadays as if it was just a norm, a phase or a culture. But I think we should change it, we create bonds with people in the world and create a fruitful experience with them. At least thats what I think or I am just being naive....
Love in the Corral
When trying to understand love, my head hurts because it is complicated in some ways, but sometimes I tend to look at it in a more natural light, I love someone and I want her to be happy even if it is not me that will provide that warmth but at least someone who can love her ever better as I do, but then again I sound like a martyr even if I don't want to be one.
The story of "the Corral" is kind of sad if you ask me, Pilar was trapped and no one can help her, she tried escaping it but went in vain when he came back to the not so perfect Mr. Perfecto. Like what the title describes, the corral portrays a trap in society where in the need for a solid status in society is needed or at least stable where one's future is secured, although it sounds as if there is no more choices in life, but there are choices. Just because she had a bump in her road, she gave up. To think, during her time, if you were around this age and you are still unmarried, your future is in danger. Now, people think about it a lot before considering the ideas of marriage because of factors like their careerm, social responsibility and so on. If pilar just so happens to be here today, she would be very happy.
On the other hand, unrequitted really is cute in some ways, and sucks the other way around. To think that you admire someone froma a far and he/she doesn't even recognize your existence. In "Love in the cornhusks" Tinay just had her first born and is already pregnant. She visits her old boss and gets a letter from a past love. She then goes on a trip down memory lane and before she knows it, reality comes back in a form of a snake slithering its way to her baby.
It is fun in a sense to see that we tend to hold memories deep within ourselves and keep it as a reminder to us that this is us then, our choices we made and actions took. And this is what we are now, stronger, better, faster just like in the song by daft punk and the remix of Kanye West.
The story of "the Corral" is kind of sad if you ask me, Pilar was trapped and no one can help her, she tried escaping it but went in vain when he came back to the not so perfect Mr. Perfecto. Like what the title describes, the corral portrays a trap in society where in the need for a solid status in society is needed or at least stable where one's future is secured, although it sounds as if there is no more choices in life, but there are choices. Just because she had a bump in her road, she gave up. To think, during her time, if you were around this age and you are still unmarried, your future is in danger. Now, people think about it a lot before considering the ideas of marriage because of factors like their careerm, social responsibility and so on. If pilar just so happens to be here today, she would be very happy.
On the other hand, unrequitted really is cute in some ways, and sucks the other way around. To think that you admire someone froma a far and he/she doesn't even recognize your existence. In "Love in the cornhusks" Tinay just had her first born and is already pregnant. She visits her old boss and gets a letter from a past love. She then goes on a trip down memory lane and before she knows it, reality comes back in a form of a snake slithering its way to her baby.
It is fun in a sense to see that we tend to hold memories deep within ourselves and keep it as a reminder to us that this is us then, our choices we made and actions took. And this is what we are now, stronger, better, faster just like in the song by daft punk and the remix of Kanye West.
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