Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does the encounter between Mr. Santos and Celestino Fabia symbolize in terms of the Filipino immigrant experience?
What does the encounter between Mr. Santos and Celestino Fabia symbolize in terms of the Filipino immigrant experience?
It symbolizes the yearning for connection and belonging in the face of loneliness and exile that many Filipino immigrants feel.
How do Mr. Santos' and Mr. Fabia's discussions reflect the changing perceptions of Filipino women?
How do Mr. Santos' and Mr. Fabia's discussions reflect the changing perceptions of Filipino women?
They reflect an acknowledgment that, despite generational differences, the core qualities of Filipino women—modesty, faithfulness, and kindness—remain unchanged.
What role does the scent of apples play in Mr. Fabia's emotional experience on the farm?
What role does the scent of apples play in Mr. Fabia's emotional experience on the farm?
The scent evokes feelings of nostalgia and loneliness, reminding him of his home country that lacks such fruit, highlighting his isolation.
What does Mr. Fabia's refusal to send news back to his family imply about immigrant identity?
What does Mr. Fabia's refusal to send news back to his family imply about immigrant identity?
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In what way does the narrative of 'Scent of Apples' depict the complexities of immigrant life?
In what way does the narrative of 'Scent of Apples' depict the complexities of immigrant life?
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Study Notes
Immigrant Yearning and Loneliness
- The story reflects the desire of immigrants to return to their homeland.
- Seeing a fellow Filipino, Mr. Santos was happy to introduce himself and family.
- The story emphasizes that not all Filipinos abroad have a positive experience.
- Mr. Santos met Celestino Fabia, a farmer. Fabia was particularly interested in how Filipino women have evolved.
Meeting with Fabia and Family
- Fabia surprised Santos by traveling a long way to speak to him.
- Fabia inquired about modern Filipino women, comparing them to stereotypes.
- Santos responded that they are fundamentally the same, possessing modesty, faith, and kindness.
- Fabia invited Santos to his farm home, where his wife (Ruth) and son (Roger) would likely welcome a fellow Filipino.
Farm Visit and Farewell
- The farm's apple aroma evoked feelings of home for Fabia, emphasizing his homesickness.
- Ruth's hospitality and Roger's pleasant nature strengthened Fabia's sense of nostalgia and desire to return home.
- Fabia's sadness and loneliness are highlighted by the smell of apples.
- Fabia expressed concern that his family might have forgotten or moved on from him. This highlights the isolation felt by immigrants.
Themes of Exile and Isolation
- The story explores the fear of losing cultural identity and connection for Filipino immigrants.
- The story highlights loneliness, exile, and isolation as common experiences of immigrants, particularly when homesickness is a constant thought.
- Feelings of disconnect are highlighted, which appear to be linked to the loss of their cultural values (which are described as potentially fading away).
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Description
This quiz explores themes of immigrant longing and cultural identity through the story of Mr. Santos and Celestino Fabia. It highlights the contrasts in experiences of Filipinos abroad and examines the evolving perspectives on Filipino women. Join us as we delve into their shared experiences and the emotional connections to home.
