Scent of Apples by Beinvenido Santos #tekingtitser

Summary

In this reflective narrative, the speaker recounts a poignant encounter with Celestino Fabia, a Filipino farmer, in Kalamazoo during wartime. As they discuss changes in Filipino culture, particularly regarding women, nostalgia surfaces. Fabia reminisces about his family and struggles, highlighting the deep connections and sacrifices that characterize their lives. The speaker’s visit to Fabia's home reveals the warmth of rural life and the enduring values of love and faithfulness despite hardship. Ultimately, the story explores themes of exile, identity, and the impact of time on tradition and relationships.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The setting of the narrative highlights the impact of war on communities, with soldiers' absence symbolized by stars in windows.
• 👴 The narrator meets Celestino Fabia, a Filipino farmer, who represents the immigrant experience and connection to heritage.
• 💔 The discussion of changes in Filipino women reveals a contrast between past ideals and current realities, emphasizing cultural evolution.
• 🍂 The autumn imagery symbolizes both beauty and transience, reflecting on the passage of time and the inevitability of change.
• 🤝 Relationships among immigrants are central, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of Fabia's family despite their modest means.
• 🎤 The narrator's speaking engagement serves as a platform for exploring identity and the shared experiences of Filipinos in America.
• 🕰️ Nostalgia is a recurring theme, with the narrator reflecting on his childhood and the complexities of family dynamics.
• 🥘 The meal shared with Fabia’s family underscores the importance of food as a cultural connector and a source of comfort.
• 🌌 The emotional farewell highlights feelings of loss and the challenges of returning home for those who have been away for many years.
• 💪 The story emphasizes resilience and the enduring bonds of love and community among Filipino immigrants, despite the struggles they face.

Q & A

What historical context is present in the speaker's arrival in Kalamazoo?

The speaker arrives in Kalamazoo during World War II, evidenced by the presence of gold and silver stars in windows, indicating homes of soldiers away at war.

Who is Celestino Fabia, and why does he come to see the speaker?

Celestino Fabia is a Filipino farmer who comes to see the speaker after reading about his speaking engagement. He expresses a strong desire to reconnect with his Filipino heritage.

What themes are explored during the discussion about Filipino and American women?

The themes of cultural identity and changing societal norms are explored, with Fabia expressing nostalgia for the modesty and values of Filipino women from twenty years ago.

How does the speaker respond to Fabia's question about the changes in Filipino women?

The speaker acknowledges that Filipino women have changed on the outside but emphasizes that their inner qualities—faithfulness, modesty, and goodness—remain unchanged.

What can be inferred about Fabia's life in America based on his interaction with the speaker?

Fabia's life in America is depicted as humble and challenging. He reflects on his struggles as a farmer and the sacrifices made by his wife, Ruth, highlighting a sense of displacement and nostalgia for his homeland.

Describe the relationship between Fabia and his wife, Ruth.

Fabia and Ruth share a strong bond, evidenced by her unwavering support during difficult times, such as when he had appendicitis while she was pregnant. Their relationship exemplifies dedication and love amidst hardship.

What imagery is used to describe the autumn scenery, and what does it signify?

The autumn scenery is described with vivid imagery of gold and bronze leaves, symbolizing both beauty and the transient nature of life, as well as a reminder of the speaker's longing for home.

What does the speaker's childhood home represent in the narrative?

The speaker's childhood home represents a complex mix of nostalgia, pain, and familial connections, illustrating the struggle between cherished memories and unresolved familial conflicts.

What emotional response does Fabia exhibit when discussing Filipino women?

Fabia becomes visibly moved when discussing the qualities of Filipino women, revealing his deep connection to his cultural identity and the values he holds dear.

How does the encounter between the speaker and Fabia conclude, and what does it signify?

The encounter concludes with a sense of farewell as Fabia expresses doubt about ever returning to the Philippines. This signifies the enduring impact of exile and the bittersweet nature of their meeting, highlighting themes of loss and longing.