ASEAN LITERATURE

PHILIPPINES

VIETNAM

BRUNEI

MYANMAR

THAILAND

SINGAPORE

MALAYSIA

LAO PDR

CAMBODIA

INDONESIA

ten Member States of ASEAN.

Webster

- literature is the total of preserved writings belonging to a given language or people. It is the class of the total of writings, of a given country, which is notable for literary form or expression

Oxford

– written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit

Henry van Dyke

- Literature consists of those writings which interpret the meanings of nature and life, in words of charm and power, touched with the personality of the author, in artistic forms of permanent interest

Literature

is the total of preserved writings belonging to a given language or people. It is the class of the total of writings, of a given country, which is notable for literary form or expression

consists of those writings which interpret the meanings of nature and life, in words of charm and power, touched with the personality of the author, in artistic forms of permanent interest

PLOT

CHARACTER

SETTING

THEME

STRUCTURE

POINT OF VIEW

CONFLICT

USE OF LANGUAGE OR DICTION

FORESHADOWING

ELEMENTS OF FICTION & Narrative Conventions

Plot

– Serial arrangement of incidents, ideas, or events.

characters

are the people, animals, or beings that populate the narrative, driving the plot and shaping the story's events and themes.

Setting

– geographical location of the story, time period, daily lifestyle of the characters, and climate.

Theme

– The central idea of all literary forms

Structure

– In dramas, there are plots and subplots. These are also are divided into acts and scenes..

Point of View

authors use first-person view or third-person view

Conflict

– A plot becomes interesting and intriguing when it has its share of inbuilt conflict and twists.

Use of language or diction

– used this to portray the thoughts, emotions and feelings of the character.

Foreshadowing

– hints and suggest what will happen later

Backstory

- events of the story that happen before the present

Chekhov’s gun

- inherent object inserted in the narrative;

in media res

- narration that starts at the middle of the story;

Narrative hook

-catchy story opening to hook the attention of the readers;

hypodiegesis

- story within a story

deus-ex-machina

- tells a good character in a bad situation ensures character wins with an unexpected or implausible used to resolve.

plot twist

- surprise ending

poetic justice

- reward to the good characters and punishes the bad character

cliffhanger

- tells and abrupt ending

flashback

- tells an interjected scene of the story that takes it back in time from the current point in the story and often used to tell the events that happened before another important event

flash forward

a scene that takes the narrative to a future time from the current point of the story

1. Figures of speech

2. Pathos or emotional appeal

3. Sensory detail

4. Leitwortstil

5. Dramatic visualization

6. Characterization

Style convention

Hyperbole

metonymy

euphemism

oxymoron

Figures of speech:

Hyperbole

- exaggerated statements

metonymy

- one object or idea takes the place of another with which it has a close association

the substitution of the name of an attribute or adjunct for that of the thing meant, for example suit for business executive, or the track for horse racing.

euphemism

- to replace a word or phrase that is related to a concept that might make others uncomfortable

ex: “Let go” instead of “fired”

• “Bit the dust” instead of “died”

oxymoron

- pairing two words together that are opposing and/or contradictory

ex: bittersweet - a mix of pain and pleasure

Pathos or emotional appeal

- to inspire or pity a character

Sensory detail

- forms mental images of scenes using descriptive words

Leitwortstil

- repeats on purpose the words that usually express a motif or theme important to the story

ex: "So it goes", used to underscore the idea of fate and the inevitability of events. 

Dramatic visualization

- which presents an object or character with much description or gestures and dialogues making scenes vivid for the audience.

Characterization

- present and reveal character. Direct presentation, tells us straight out what a character is like and Indirect, shows the character in action; we infer what he is like from what he thinks or says or does

Feminism

New Historicism

Formalism or new criticism

Archetypal

Literary approach

Feminism

uplifts women goals by defining and establishing equality in the family, civil, social, political, and economic arena. Feminist literature is often associated with literary pieces written by women that deal with women in the society.

New Historicism

deals with the cultural context during the writing of the piece of literature.

Formalism or new criticism

- interpretation of a work of art is formulated by the information and details of the piece itself.

Archetypal

- focuses on connection to other literature, mythological allusions, archetypal images,

ex: hero

Short Story

– is a brief, artistic form of prose which is centered on a single main incident and is intended to produce a single dominant impression.

Fiction

- series of imagined facts which illustrates truths about human life

Plays/Legends

popular fictional stories coming down from the past but not verifiable

Fables

- short tale to teach a moral lesson

Anecdote

- is a short story about a real person or event, usually serving to make the listeners laugh or ponder over a topic. Generally, the anecdote will relate to the subject matter that the group of people is discussing.

PROSE

does not pay attention to rhyme and rhythm

the writer usually has no word limit

ideas are written in sentences; sentences are grouped into paragraphs

language is more natural and grammatical

can be understood by reading once

POETRY

pays attention to rhyme and rhythm

use a limited number of words

ideas are written in lines” lines are grouped into stanzas

language is figurative and rhythmical

more than one reading may be needed to understand the meaning

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN

was established on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand, with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the Founding Fathers of ASEAN: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Brunei Darussalam joined ASEAN on 7 January 1984, followed by Viet Nam on 28 July 1995, Lao PDR and Myanmar on 23 July 1997, and Cambodia on 30 April 1999, making up what is today the ten Member States of ASEAN.

Si Mabuti

Tata Selo

Morning in Nagrebcan

PHILIPPINE LITERARY PIECES

Si Mabuti

(Genoveva Edroza-Matute, Filipino author who is the recipient of the first-ever Palanca Award for Short Story in Filipino, for “Kuwento ni Mabuti”, “Paglalayag sa Puso ng Isang Bata” Parusain 1961)

Characters: Mabuti – teacher, mother of six year-old child (who dreams to be a doctor) and, Narrator –Pupil

Elicits empathy and recognition that human experiences are multifaceted

First person view

Literary Approach – Feminism (Mabuti as mother & father) Secret of Mabuti

Genoveva Edroza-Matute

wrote Si Mabuti

Filipino author who is the recipient of the first-ever Palanca Award for Short Story in Filipino, for “Kuwento ni Mabuti”, “Paglalayag sa Puso ng Isang Bata” Parusain 1961

Tata Selo

(by Rogelio Sikat, Filipino author who won the second prize in the Carlos Palanca Award for 1963.^[3] It was later adapted for the 2014 anthology film Tres.

Characters: Tata Selo (farmer), Saling (daughter of TS), Kabesang Tano (brgy captain)’

Injustice, Political cruelties, land reform issues

Literary approach – New Historicism Feminism (Saling, faced injustices)

Rogelio Sikat

wrote Tata Selo

Morning ni Nagrebcan

(Manuel E. Arguilla, an Ilokano writer in English, patriot, and martyr. He is known for his widely anthologized short story "How My Brother Leon Brought Home a Wife," the main story in the collection How My Brother Leon Brought Home a Wife and Other Short Stories)

Characters: Nana Elang (Mother, 30 yr-old but looking 50), Tang Ciaco (father, carpenter), Baldo (10 yr-old), Ambo (7 yr-old), Black-spotted puppy, four white puppies, and Bitch.

● Innocence, Family, Rural Life and Simplicity)

● Highlight: Physical fight between Baldo and Ambo

● Death of black-spotted puppy

Feminism and new Historicism

(Manuel E. Arguilla

wrote Morning in Nagrebcan

an Ilokano writer in English, patriot, and martyr. He is known for his widely anthologized short story "How My Brother Leon Brought Home a Wife," the main story in the collection How My Brother Leon Brought Home a Wife and Other Short Stories)

A Cherished Daughter

School Boy's Apology

Inside the Submarine

Vietnam LITERARY PIECES

A Cherished Daughter

Phan Nhiên Hạo

Reflects marriage and familial expectations. It is about mother’s role in guiding her daughter through life. Magpie symbolizes as the messenger/middleman

THEMES: Desperation and Loneliness (from hopeful inquiry to desperate plea), Maternal Love vs. Control (hinders the autonomy and happiness), and Cultural Expectations (impose limitation impersonal choices)

Lyric poetry and Repetition

A School Boy’s Apology

Le Thanh Huan

Narrative Poetry

Trauma, about how the memory of war hunts him. How in the word “lecture” expresses the common place where his symptoms show and

Guns and Steel that symbolize the boy’s life, which is fraught with danger and violence, the war backdrop of Vietnam.

(B) About the essence of youth, remorse, and desire for forgiveness.

Themes: Innocence and Guilt, Forgiveness and Redemption, Growth and Learning.

Inside the Submarine

Phan Nhien Hao

Descriptive poetry that explores the themes of searching for meaning, enduring hope, and encountering life's harsh realities

- living inside submarines, metaphorically representing their journey through life's uncertainties and challenges

- submarine symbolizes the confined and often isolating nature of their existence.

The Oilfield Laborers

Borneo's Green Heart

Travel Brunei Darussalam Poem - Bandar Seri Begawan

BRUNEI LITERARY PIECES

The Oilfield Laborers

The story is set in Kampong Umbi, a village devastated by a fire that leaves forty houses burnt down and the community in ruins. Key

Themes: Loss and Trauma (The fire not only destroys physical structures but also leaves emotional scars on the villagers),

Resilience and Rebuilding (Despite the overwhelming loss, Yazid and his friend Adam exhibit resilience. Adam showcasing the community's solidarity and support in times of crisis.

Death and Mortality, and Cultural and Social Context (community, support, and shared experiences in overcoming adversity)

Borneo’s Green Heart

The poem uses vivid imagery and metaphorical language to paint a picture of Brunei as a gem of a nation, an abode of peace, and a treasure of empire.

Key themes: Natural Beauty (Green heart, Kingdom of treasures, an environment of treasures), Peace and Tranquility, Cultural Heritage (ancient Sultanate kingdom)

Travel Brunei Darussalam Poem- Bandar Seri Begawan

by John Tiong Chunghoo is a vivid and evocative piece that captures the essence of Brunei's capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan.

The poem uses rich imagery and cultural references to paint a picture of the city's unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Key themes: Blend of Old and New, Cultural and Natural Beauty, Economic Activity, Daily Life and Community, and Natural Elements and Wildlife.

John Tiong Chunghoo

wrote Travel Brunei Darussalam Poem- Bandar Seri Begawan

Close Proximity

The Kindergarten Teacher

The wedding Reception

MYANMAR LITERARY PIECES

Close Proximity

- delves into the complexities of family relationships, societal expectations, and personal sacrifices.

Key Themes: Family Dynamics (strained relationship between Ma Thaw's parents), Societal Expectations (being unmarried), Personal Sacrifice (puts her parents' needs above her own), and Cultural Context

Symbolism (two separate stoves), Imagery (descriptions of household), Irony (parents living in close proximity yet distant)

The Kindergarten Teacher

The narrative is set in a primary school near the Shwe In Taung pagoda and revolves around the experiences of U Nyan Sein, a dedicated kindergarten teacher.

Key themes: The True Value of Teaching, Compassion and Understanding, and Conflict and Resolution

"The Wedding Reception"

by Nyi Pu Lay is a short story set in Myanmar that revolves around the cultural and societal expectations placed upon newlyweds. The narrative unfolds during a wedding reception in a small village, providing a rich tapestry of themes and character interactions.

Key Themes: Tradition vs. Modernity, Societal Expectations, Gender Roles, Community and Social Dynamics

Nyi Pu Lay

wrote the Wedding Reception

Boatman’s Love Song

Three Line Poem

SMILE OF THE RICE GODDESS

THAILAND LITERARY PIECES

Boatman’s Love Song

lyrical poem that celebrates the pure and genuine love of a boatman for his beloved.

Theme: Love and Admiration Nature

Imagery: compares her eyebrows to healthy leeches and her teeth to the bark of ebony.

Cultural Context: respect and admiration for others First POV Symbolism of Genuine

Love: goes beyond physical appearance

Three Line Poem

delves into themes of superstition, cultural beliefs, and the darker aspects of human nature.

Theme: Superstition and Belief

Symbolism: Cat = various things such as innocence, purity, faith Irony and Satire Dark and Gloomy emotional tone

SMILE OF THE RICE GODDESS

- honors Thailand's rich agricultural heritage and the vital role of women in rice farming.

Theme: Hard Work and Resilience

Imagery and Sensory Details: sounds of the pestle striking the husk, the sight of the shining white rice, and the feel of the sweat pouring down the women's faces

Empowerment and Unity: working together, supporting each other, and sharing moments of laughter and camaraderie.

"Champoon"

, delves into themes of love, betrayal, and tragedy.

Themes: Love and Betrayal, Conflict and Rivalry, and Tragedy and Loss

Characterization: Nai Amnuey (determined and passionate individual), Champoon (victim of her Father’s oppressive control and societal expectations), Taokae Soon (oppressive and authoritarian figure)

Imagery and Symbolism: crocodile (danger and obstacles)

Maum

explores the hardship in Bangkok

During WWII through the eyes of a loyal dog named _________-.

Theme: Loyalty and Sacrifice

Historical Context, period marked by separation, poverty, and loss.

Symbolism of Dog- loyalty, hope, and resilience

Emotional tone: from sorrow and despair to hope and resilience.

The Barbs

reflects the spirit and way of living of Thai Rural people in an agricultural society.

Themes of Rural LIfe and Community

Barbs - challenges and obstacle faced by the villagers C

haracterization - hardworking and resilient individuals.

Cultural significance - importance of agriculture, community, and resilience in the face of adversity.

What is such forging?

- inspires people to face life’s challenges with pride and resilience.

Theme: Resilience and Pride Moral Support and Inspiration as source of encouragement

Emotional Tone: Uplifting and Empowering

A Poet’s Pledge

poet’s dedication to their craft and impact of poetry on society.

Theme: Commitment and Responsibility

Imagery and Symbolism: Words as weapon

Tone and Emotion: Solemn and Determined

A Poet’s pledge 2

Continuation of Commitment

Imagery of Struggle and Perseverance

Emotional Resilience and Universal Appeal

E-SAN

portrayal of life in the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isan.

Theme: Rural Life and Hardship

Cultural and Social Context: insights into the customs, traditions, and way of life of the people.

Characterization: hardworking and resilient individuals

Symbolism: Fields and crops (hope and aspirations) hardships (struggles of rural life)

Mere Movement

delves into the essence of existence and the transient nature of life.

Theme: Transience and Impermanence

Imagery and Symbolism: fluttering of leaves (passing moments), rain and wind (cleansing forces and struggles of individuals)

Political and Social Commentary

Emotional tone: defiance and resilience

Philosophical Inquiry: philosophical questions about human existence and the essence of life.

Arrival of Nirvana at Egg-Noodle Shop

explores themes of enlightenment, simplicity, and the intersection of the mundane and the spiritual.

Theme: Enlightenment (Nirvana, state of ultimate enlightenment and liberation in Buddhist philosophy)

Imagery and Symbolism: Egg-Noodle Shop (simplicity), arrival of nirvana (moment of profound spiritual insight)

Tone and Mood: Contemplative and serene