Reread the poem: Man of Earth by Amador T. Daguio. Explain the message that the author wants to convey to the listeners. Your explanation must consist of 20 to 25 sentences. You may include the moral lesson that you’ve got from text. Man of Earth was written by Amador T. Daguio. He was only 20 when he wrote this one. Here is the poem: Pliant is the bamboo; I am a man of earth; They say that from the bamboo We had our first birth. Am I of the body, Or of the green leaf? Do I have to whisper My every sin and grief? If the wind passes by, Must I stoop and try To measure fully
My flexibility ?N I might have been the bamboo, But I will be a man. Bend me then, O Lord,
Bend me if you can.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
In “Man of Earth,” Amador T. Daguio presents a profound exploration of human identity and resilience. The poem begins by comparing the pliability of bamboo to the human condition, suggesting that while bamboo is flexible, humans are grounded in the earth. This contrast sets the stage for a deeper reflection on human nature and existence.
The line “They say that from the bamboo we had our first birth” alludes to the Filipino creation myth of “Si Malakas at si Maganda,” where the first humans emerged from a bamboo stalk. This reference connects the speaker to a shared cultural heritage, emphasizing a return to one’s roots.
The speaker questions his essence: “Am I of the body, or of the green leaf?” This inquiry delves into the duality of human nature, contemplating whether one’s identity is shaped by physical form or spiritual essence.
The speaker also reflects on the need to express personal struggles: “Do I have to whisper my every sin and grief?” This line suggests a desire for privacy and the internalization of pain, highlighting the human tendency to conceal vulnerabilities.
The metaphor of the wind passing by and the expectation to “stoop and try to measure fully my flexibility” further explores the theme of adaptability. It questions whether one should conform to external pressures or remain steadfast in one’s beliefs.
The speaker acknowledges the possibility of being like bamboo but ultimately declares, “But I will be a man.” This assertion signifies a conscious choice to embrace human qualities such as strength, resilience, and individuality.
The plea, “Bend me then, O Lord, bend me if you can,” reflects a willingness to endure challenges and growth, yet with the firm resolve to maintain one’s core identity.
Through this poem, Daguio conveys a message of self-awareness and the importance of staying true to one’s essence amidst life’s trials. The moral lesson emphasizes the value of resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to define one’s path, regardless of external influences.
In essence, “Man of Earth” is a contemplative piece that encourages individuals to reflect on their origins, confront their inner conflicts, and assert their identity with strength and conviction.