A LITERARY ANALYSIS

OF THE SHORT STORY

FOOTHNOTE TO YOUTH

INTRODUCTION

"Footnote to Youth" is a short story written by Filipino author José Garcia Villa that was
first published in The Frontier in January 1932. It centers on Dodong, a farmer's son living in the
Philippines who wishes to marry at the tender age of seventeen. Dodong eventually regrets his
decision to marry young, but he fails to prevent his eldest son from making the same mistake.
The relevance of portraying the story as such may be seen in the actuality of its core problem, as
young marriage is an issue typically related to poverty, limited education, and a lack of
alternative opportunities.

BODY

The story "Footnote to Youth "by Jose Garcia Villa, is exceptional and an awakening
story for all of us. As I began reading, I assumed I would have no interest in the narrative;
nevertheless, as I progressed through it, I discovered that I was more engaged than I had
anticipated. This story is a wonderful illustration of impulsive decisions made by teenagers who
believe they are correct in their deeds. It is highly realistic and simple to relate to because it
portrays both the youth of the past and the youth of today. The title spans the entire story in such
a way that it truly suits the title in terms of content and message. According to the narrative,
there is an overlapping point between two generations. The old ways and modern life. This issue
is exacerbated by a lack of clear communication and awareness. The story illustrates the same
thing happening between Dudong and his father, and then between Dudong and his son Blas. It
was kept at the same level and passed down to subsequent generations because their parents did
not properly discuss and educate their children on how vital it is not to hurry into decisions.
Dudong did not personally preach to Blas about the disadvantages of early marriage rather than
enjoying his youth. Dudong did not reveal what he had felt and experienced because he believed
Blas was now ready for the next step in his life and needed to marry; perhaps it will not be
passed onto the following generation. Dudong's father and subsequently Dudong discuss the
main point of the ancient generation of Filipinos who cling to traditions and customs. It respects
and honors the institution of marriage.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the story implies the reality that sometimes the youth often lack the maturity and
patience to think and balance deeply about their decisions. Such fast actions often end up
becoming regrets which they have to suffer for the rest of their lives. Parents must guide their
children in the proper decision making specifically in teenage marriage to prevent and cut the
cycle of wrong customs. Hence, the main message of the story is to be patient, reflect and
balance on our choices before making life long or long-term decisions like marriage. That
everyone must enjoy their youthful age. The age that they are not pressure for responsibility,
since being a youth is so short compared to being an adult that will encounter great
responsibilities, thus they must treasure their youthful age and live life to the fullest. It
encourages the young to not let the overthink and create quick conclusions and then regret the
consequences. It calls attention in enjoying life as a youth and not letting youthful mistakes
become the load of old age.