Adidas sa Badjao

Poetry by Jovanie Garay | May 20, 2018

Jovanie Garay

Jovanie Garay was born in La Union, San Isidro, Davao Oriental. He is a graduate of BSED English in
Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology, Mati City. Jovanie B. Garay has a degree
of Master of Arts in Education majoring in English. And Currently, he is pursuing Doctor in
Philosophy majoring in applied linguistics He teaches language and literatures DOSCST-San Isidro
Extension Campus. His short stories and poems appeared in Dagmay, Bisaya Magasin and
Kabisdak.

His research interests rest in the fields of linguistics, literature, and marine sea turtles.

Jovanie is also a local writer who promotes regional literature written in the mother tongue. His
works are published on local, regional, and national platforms.

adidas sa badjao
perming galakaw-lakaw
gikan silas Dabaw
hangtud Oriental ang panaw
nahimong negosyante
makahangyo ka permi
gikan dosentos baynte
hangtud sa wan pepti
???

adidas sa badjao
ang halin ipamahaw
usahay lugaw-lugaw
aron gutom mahanaw
kung imong tan-awon
nanginabuhi intawon
isug natong mga igsuon
hagit sa kinabuhi gapadayon
???

adidas sa badjao
lig-on ilakaw-lakaw
bisan asa pa imong panaw
diha ilalom sa adlaw
pagkanindot suoton
dili gikan sa halangdon
sayon ra pod sukdon
sa tiil nga mga kubalon
???

mga adidas sa badjao

RHYME AND RHYME SCHEME

The rhyme scheme of the poem "Adidas sa Badjao" is AABB for each stanza. In each pair of lines,
the first and second lines rhyme with each other, creating a consistent and rhythmic pattern
throughout the poem.

Determining the exact rhythm of a poem without the specific meter provided can be a bit
challenging. In the absence of a clear metrical pattern (such as iambic pentameter or trochaic
tetrameter), we can analyze the general rhythm based on the natural flow of the language. The
poem "Adidas sa Badjao" appears to have a rhythmic and melodic quality, with a mix of short and
long lines contributing to its musicality. The use of repetition and consistent rhyme scheme also adds
to the overall rhythmic structure. However, without a specific meter provided, it's best described as
having a free verse or irregular rhythm, allowing for a more fluid and expressive style in the poet's
composition.

LANGUAGE

The poem "Adidas sa Badjao" appears to be written in Cebuano, a language spoken in the
Philippines. Cebuano is one of the major languages in the country, particularly in the Visayas and
Mindanao regions. The use of terms like "Dabaw" (referring to Davao) and "lugaw" (porridge)
suggests a connection to the culture and language of the southern Philippines.

IMAGERY
The poem "Adidas sa Badjao" incorporates vivid imagery to paint a picture of the Badjao people's
life and experiences. Some of the key imagery includes:

Walking and Journeying: The repeated references to walking and journeying create an image of
constant movement, symbolizing the ongoing and challenging nature of life. This imagery may also
reflect the resilience and adaptability of the Badjao people.
Geographical Imagery: Mentions of Dabaw, Oriental, and Davao Oriental provide geographical
imagery, grounding the poem in a specific location and highlighting the connection of the Badjao
people to their homeland.
Business and Negotiation: The imagery of becoming a negosyante (businessperson) suggests a shift
in lifestyle and hints at the challenges and negotiations involved in their economic pursuits.
Food Imagery: The references to meals such as lugaw (porridge) evoke images of simplicity and
sustenance. This imagery may symbolize finding contentment in basic necessities and the communal
aspect of sharing meals.
Clothing Imagery: Descriptions of suoton (clothing) emphasize the simplicity and practicality of what
is worn. This imagery may signify the importance of humility and being grounded in one's lifestyle.
Unity and Brotherhood: The line "isug natong mga igsuon" (stand together, brothers and sisters)
creates an image of unity and solidarity among the Badjao people, emphasizing the importance of
community and support.
These various images work together to provide readers with a glimpse into the daily life,
challenges, and values of the Badjao people, creating a rich and evocative tapestry of their
experiences.

SYMBOLISM
In the poem "Adidas sa Badjao," the term "Adidas" is likely used metaphorically to symbolize the
adaptability, resilience, and practicality of the Badjao people. The repeated references to walking
and journeying, combined with the mention of "Adidas," suggest a metaphorical association with
the qualities of a reliable and versatile pair of shoes. Here are a few interpretations of what
"Adidas" might symbolize in the context of the poem:

Adaptability: Much like a pair of Adidas shoes that can adapt to various terrains, the Badjao people
are portrayed as adaptable and able to navigate through the challenges of life.

Resilience: Adidas is a well-known sports brand, and the poem may use it as a symbol of strength
and endurance. The Badjao people, like a sturdy pair of shoes, endure the journey of life with
resilience.

Practicality: Adidas shoes are known for their practical design and functionality. The poem may use
"Adidas" as a symbol of practicality, emphasizing the straightforward and pragmatic approach of the
Badjao people to their daily lives.

Unity and Solidarity: The repeated mention of "Adidas sa Badjao" throughout the poem could also
symbolize a sense of unity and identity among the Badjao people, highlighting a shared experience
and a collective journey.

It's important to note that the interpretation of symbols in poetry can be subjective, and different
readers may have varying perspectives on what "Adidas sa Badjao" symbolizes.

THEME
The theme of the poem "Adidas sa Badjao" encompasses several interconnected elements,
reflecting the experiences, values, and challenges of the Badjao people. Some overarching themes
include:

Resilience and Adaptability: The poem celebrates the resilience and adaptability of the Badjao
people as they navigate through life's challenges. The repeated emphasis on walking and journeying
suggests a metaphor for their ability to persevere and adapt to changing circumstances.
Simplicity and Contentment: The references to simple meals like lugaw (porridge) and the emphasis
on practical clothing convey a theme of finding contentment in life's basic and essential elements.
The poem suggests that joy can be found in the simplicity of daily existence.
Community and Solidarity: The line "isug natong mga igsuon" (stand together, brothers and sisters)
conveys a theme of community and solidarity. The poem suggests that unity among the Badjao
people is a source of strength as they face the challenges of life.
Cultural Identity and Connection to Homeland: The geographical references to Dabaw and Davao
Oriental emphasize the theme of cultural identity and the importance of a connection to one's
homeland. The poem suggests a pride in and connection to their roots.
Journey of Life: The overall narrative of the poem, with its focus on walking, journeying, and the
various experiences encountered, conveys a broader theme of life as a journey. The poem suggests
that the Badjao people approach this journey with resilience, simplicity, and a sense of unity.
These themes collectively paint a portrait of the Badjao people, emphasizing their strengths, values,
and the collective nature of their journey through life.

SOCIAL INFLUENCE
The social influence of a poem like "Adidas sa Badjao" can be multifaceted, impacting both the
community it represents and a broader audience. Here are some potential social influences of the
poem:

Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: The poem sheds light on the culture and experiences of the
Badjao people, fostering cultural awareness and appreciation among readers. It can contribute to a
better understanding of their way of life, traditions, and challenges.
Promotion of Resilience and Adaptability: The celebration of the Badjao people's resilience and
adaptability in the poem can serve as an inspirational message for readers facing their own
challenges. It may encourage individuals to approach difficulties with a more resilient and adaptable
mindset.
Unity and Solidarity: The emphasis on unity and solidarity within the Badjao community, as
portrayed in the poem, can inspire a sense of community and cooperation. It may encourage readers
to reflect on the importance of standing together in the face of life's challenges.
Reflection on Simplicity and Contentment: The poem's theme of finding contentment in simplicity
can prompt readers to reflect on their own values and priorities. It may encourage a reevaluation of
what brings true happiness and fulfillment in life.
Connection to Roots and Homeland: The poem's exploration of the Badjao people's connection to
their homeland may resonate with readers who have experienced migration or disconnection from
their roots. It can inspire individuals to value and maintain a connection to their cultural heritage.
Promotion of Diversity: By presenting a cultural narrative that may be less familiar to some readers,
the poem contributes to the diversity of voices in literature. It encourages an appreciation for the
richness of human experiences across different communities.

While the direct social impact of a poem may be challenging to measure, literature has the power to
shape perspectives, provoke thought, and promote understanding. "Adidas sa Badjao" has the
potential to influence social attitudes by offering a glimpse into the lives of the Badjao people and
conveying universal themes of resilience, unity, and cultural identity.

PERSONAL REFLECTION
The poem has made me admire the Badjao's ability to convert challenges into opportunities. "Adidas
sa badjao" taught me to be resilient in the face of life's challenges, obstacles, and adversities. It also
reminds me to find happiness even in the middle of life's difficulties. Finally, the poem serves as a
gentle reminder to us to find joy in our journeys, regardless of the challenges and to treasure
moments of happiness amidst the challenges of life.

In summary, the moral lessons of the poem revolve around resilience, simplicity, entrepreneurship, community, and the pursuit of joy. The
Badjao's journey serves as a metaphor for the human experience, offering insights into how individuals and communities can navigate life
with strength, resourcefulness, and a positive perspective.