The Itsy Bitsy Spider and Magtanim ay Di Biro:

The Unraveling of Two Literary Arts of Mankind's Value of Ceaseless Resilience

A Literary Paper

Submitted to

Prof. Robertgie L. Piañar

In Partial Fulfilment of the Course

Children and Adolescent Literature

Submitted by

Aguilar, Shanna Mae

Castillote, Althea

Alexie Gallaron, Kenna

Joy Ortega, John

Emmanuel

Semester 1, 2022-2023
 CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENT LITERATURE

Performance Task No. 3: Analysis of elements in children/adolescent poetry

ABSTRACT

This literary paper explores the deep meaning and significance of two children's

songs, "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Magtanim Ay Di Biro." The analysis delves into

discovering the senses, sounds, and structure present in both songs, as well as the

symbols and themes they convey. Through the presence of these elements in these

poems, the analysis uncovers the themes of resilience and determination that are

interconnected in these nursery rhymes. The Itsy Bitsy Spider portrays the power of

perseverance through the story of a spider facing repeated obstacles. On the other hand,

Magtanim Ay Di Biro pays tribute to the hardworking farmers and highlights the

importance of agriculture in society. By examining these seemingly simplistic children's

songs, this literary paper aims to deepen our appreciation for their timeless stories and

their ability to connect generations and cultures. Hence, these two rhymes are perfectly

suited for children to basically interpret the vision of one's dreams and how to be

resilient when it comes to reaching for them.

I. INTRODUCTION

In human culture, songs have been bridging the gaps between time and what we

have brought from history, connecting generations and communities through the

universal language of music. Whether it is made or sung for adults or children, music

has the power to convey a message and deliver it to the people. "The Itsy-Bitsy Spider"

and "Magtanim Ay Di Biro" are two songs, each possessing a distinct cultural and

emotional connection. As we embark on a poetic analysis of these two poetic

compositions, we delve
into the essence of folk traditions. Here, we explore the interconnected themes of

resilience and determination that are connected through the children’s song.

The poem entitled "The Itsy-Bitsy Spider" is a nursery rhyme known by children

around the world, written as a simple yet powerful narrative showing the power of

perseverance. This eight-legged character, also known as the spider, encounters the

tough challenge of climbing a waterspout, only to be met with a challenging situation

caused by the rain. The spider's unwavering determination in facing the repetition of

obstacles becomes a metaphor for human resilience, an enduring reminder that

determination can overcome even the most impossible trials. On the other hand,

“Magtanim Ay Di Biro,” a popular Filipino nursery rhyme that translates to “planting is

never fun” or “planting is no joke” is a famous Tagalog folk song composed by Felipe

de Leon that entails the story of the everyday struggles of farmers, and a folk song

deeply rooted in Filipino culture. It is a melodic narrative written in tribute to the

hardworking farmers; specifically, the Philippines is known primarily as an agricultural

country. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of the trials and fulfillment of a farmer's life,

expressing the sweat and work required to grow the land. This song serves as a tribute to

the unwavering hard work of the farmers who raise and produce raw materials and food,

celebrating the vital role of agriculture in society and highlighting the importance of

communal efforts.

Through this analysis, we aim to uncover the meaning that resides deep within

the seemingly simplistic children’s songs. Our goal is to put emphasis on the timeless

stories they carry, the commonalities they express, and the powerful emotions they

evoke. In doing so, we will gain a deeper appreciation of the significance of these

nursery rhymes and their power to connect us across generations and cultures.
 II. ANALYSIS

1. Itsy Bitsy Spider

Table 1. Tabular Presentation of the Figures of Sense (Meaning)

Sense (Meaning) Excerpt in the Text

Imagery (sight) (1) The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the

water spout.

(2) Down came the rain

(3) and washed the spider out.

(4) Out came the sun,

(5) and dried up all the rain

Symbols  Spider – People

 Sun – Hope

 Rain – Circumstances

Theme  Perseverance

 Determination

The nursery rhyme ‘Itsy bitsy spider’ shows the adventure of a little spider. In

this nursery rhyme, the spider was being washed away whenever there was rain, and

the spider was just able to continue if the sun came out as it dried the water spout.

By just interpreting what the text implies, we can say that if there is a bad weather

condition, it may bring danger to one’s lives, and if there is a good weather

condition, it may bring happiness to one’s lives because they can do whatever they

want while being safe.

The use of visual imagery helps us imagine what the spider looks like, the

state of the weather, the surroundings where the spider is, and the things that he did,

even if there is no image attached to the text. It was stated in the first line, ‘itsy bitsy

spider’ that
the spider is very tiny because of the adjectives itsy and bitsy. Additionally, we were

able to imagine the journey of the spider and its surroundings. It was stated in the

text that the spider went up the water spout, and when the rain came, the spider was

washed away. However, the sun comes out, drying the water spout, so he climbs up

again.

The spider, rain, and sun play an important role, as these are the ones that

give meaning to the nursery rhyme. Without being literal about the meaning that the

texts in this nursery rhyme imply, we come up with a different interpretation based

on the present evidence of the analysis in figures of sense. The three important

things in this nursery rhyme, which are the spider, rain, and sun, symbolize

something. Here, the spider symbolizes people; the sun is the hope, and the rain is

the problem or circumstances in life that unexpectedly come and go.

You may wonder why, of all the animals or living things in this world, a

spider was chosen to be the character in this nursery rhyme. Probably because

spiders are those organisms that have a short life span whenever at risk and have

only limited capabilities, unlike other organisms or animals. Since the spider

symbolizes people, it can be these people who have limited capabilities in terms of

finances, or, basically, these are people who are suffering from poverty. Here, the

spider's size alone can already be used to infer that it stands for little, less privileged

individuals. Now, in the first and second lines, it was said that itsy bitsy spider went

up the water spout; this kind of introduction of the nursery rhyme could be our

journey. Now, considering all the options, why did the spider decide to go in a

waterspout? As we all know, a waterspout, as described in this nursery rhyme, is a

gutter system that is responsible for water management when rain occurs. So, why

did the spider climb up in the waterspout? Perhaps because it is the path that he
thinks is meant for him, this is the only place that he wanted to go because he
thinks that by going there, he can find the success and happiness that he is longing for.

Aside from his dedication, we can also observe his bravery because, even if he knows

that he may encounter a big problem or be in danger when the rain occurs, he still

continues his journey. Similar to us, even though there are a lot of ways to go, we

usually choose the path that we think is meant for us and that we think can give us the

success that we are aiming for. We often choose what we want, even if we know that we

might encounter different challenges that might test our abilities and make us think of

giving up. However, knowing the situation that we have, specifically the kind of poverty

that we are experiencing, thinking of giving up is the least that we could do.

In connection with this, lines 3 and 4, where the rain came down that washed

the spider out, are sad and true. In real life, problems are really unavoidable; they

will just come unexpectedly and sometimes put us in situations where we think we

cannot get up again, or sometimes lead us to lose our direction, and instead of

looking for solutions, we tend to do other things that might worsen the situation.

However, just like how the sun came out and dried up all the rain in lines 5 and 6 of

this nursery rhyme, there will also be hope that will light up the darkest part of our

lives and that we will be able to get up again, resolve the problems, and continue our

journey, similar to what the spider did in lines 7 and 8, which was to get up and

continue climbing up the waterspout. Because of the spider's determination and

perseverance, he was able to go into the spout again. Like in real life, if we are

perseverant and determined, we will also be able to achieve our goals in life. As

they all said, problems are problems and not a rest place, so whenever problems

come, do not stop but instead continue and use them as motivation to reach success

in life. With that, this interpretation revolves around the theme of perseverance

and
determination to continue the journey despite the circumstances that we encounter

and may encounter in life.

Table 2. Tabular Presentation of the Figures of Sound (Rhythm)

Sound (Rhythm) Excerpt in the Text

Rhyme Scheme (1) The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the

water spout. (A)

(2) Down came the rain (B)

(3) and washed the spider out. (A)

(4) Out came the sun (C)

(5) and dried up all the rain (B)

(6) and the itsy bitsy spider climbed up the

spout again (B)

Types of rhyme Masculine rhyme/Perfect ryhme:

Lines 1 and 3: spout and out

Lines 2 and 5: rain, rain, and again

Consonance 1st line: The itsy bitsy spider

6th line: The itsy bitsy spider

Repetition of Phrases Lines 1 and 6: The itsy bitsy spider climbed

up

Lines 2 and 5: The rain

Repetition of words Lines 1 and 6: Itsy, bitsy, spider, climbed,

up, and spout

Lines 2 and 5: rain

Foot in Poetry: iamb (The bold and capitalized letters are accented)
 (1) The ITsy BITsy SPIder CLIMBED up
THE waTER spout.

(2) down CAME the RAIN

(3) and WASHED the SPIder OUT.

(4) Out CAME the SUN

(5) and DRIED up ALL the RAIN

(6) the ITsy BITsy SPIder CLIMED up

THE spout AGAIN.

Meter 1st line: Iambic

Hexameter 2nd line:

Iambic Dimeter 3rd line:

Iambic Trimeter 4th line:

Iambic Dimeter 5th line:

Iambic Trimeter

6th line: Iambic Hexameter

The nursery rhyme “Itsy bitsy spider” has a rhyme scheme of ABACBB. This

means that lines 1 and 3 have the same end rhymes, as do lines 2, 5, and 6. The kind of

rhyming present in these words is masculine rhyme or perfect rhyme since only one

syllable in every word has the same rhyme, such as the words spout and out and rain

and again. Moreover, there is a presence of consonance in the nursery rhyme ‘Itsy bitsy

spider’ because of the consonants ‘tsy’ in the neighboring words itsy and bitsy located

in lines 1 and 6. There are also repetitions of some phrases, such as the “itsy bitsy spider

climbed up,” and “the rain,” which somehow give the listener or reader an idea that

these are important points to consider in interpreting the meaning of the text. Here, the

spider is the main character, the rain was the big challenge, and climbing up again

shows
perseverance and courage to continue despite the hardships that are encountered in life.

Moreover, the repetition of the word ‘rain’ in the nursery rhyme "the itsy-bitsy spider"

serves as a thematic and narrative tool, effectively highlights the central message of

resilience in facing challenges. Just like what the repetition of phrases in this nursery

rhyme implies, the repetition of the word "rain" from lines 1 and 2 represents a new test

or hurdle encountered by the spider on its journey. The use of "rain," often accompanied

by the term "down," symbolizes the setbacks of life and the seemingly impossible

obstacles one may encounter. Through this repetition, the song highlights the spider's

unwavering determination to persist in spite of the trials. Additionally, the employment

of repetition not only strengthens the message of perseverance, but also establishes a

rhythmic pattern that captivates attention, particularly among children. Hence, the

repetitive use of "rain" symbolizes the song's timeless lesson that trials are normal

phases of life, yet with determination, one can overcome them and continue ascending,

similar to the itsy-bitsy spider.

Furthermore, the nursery rhyme ‘itsy bitsy spider’ uses iambic foot. It is

called iamb when the first syllable is unaccented and followed by an accented

syllable. As we can observe, the nursery rhyme ‘itsy bitsy spider’ has this kind of

foot that can be seen in the entire song. An example is as follows: The ITsy BITsy

SPIder CLIMED up THE waTER spout. This kind of foot creates a pleasing

rhythm in the listener’s ears as well as the variation of meters in each line, which is

suitable for children because even if it has a simple rhythm, it still offers a lively and

joyful vibe. In connection with the interpretation of this nursery rhyme, this kind of

mood elevates positivity and liveliness, especially since it highlights perseverance

and determination as the keys to success. And of course,

if you already succeed in life or if you already achieve your goals, it is expected that

happiness, positivity, or liveliness in you will be evident.

Table 3. Tabular Presentation of the Figures of Structure (Sign)

Structure (Sign) Excerpt in the Text

Stanza 1

Lines Sestet

(1) The itsy-bitsy spider climbed up

the waterspout.

(2) Down came the rain

(3) and washed the spider out.

(4) Out came the sun

(5) and dried up all the rain

(6) and the itsy-bitsy spider climbed up

the spout again.

Punctuation Lines 1, 3, and 6: Period (.)

Syntax Inversion:

(2) Down came the rain (The rain came

down)

(4) Out came the sun (The sun came out)

Enjambment (1) The itsy-bitsy spider climbed up
the waterspout.

(2) Down came the rain

(3) and washed the spider out.

(4) Out came the sun

(5) and dried up all the rain

 (6) and the itsy-bitsy spider climbed up

the spout again.

The structure of the poem consists of six lines wherein it is considered as a stanza

in sestet. A sestet is composed with one stanza consisting six lines which makes it a

whole poem, symbolizing the wholeness of the spider’s story about his challenges until

such times that he was able to overcome or climbed up the waterspout after the sun

dried up all the rain.

The punctuations in the lines 1 and 6 simply indicates the beginning and the end

of the main character’s challenges and success in achieving what he aims for. The

period from the first line stating “The itsy-bitsy spider climbed up the waterspout.”

introduces the starting point as to how the spider begin to work on his goal. This can be

related to when a person aims to achieve something, it is common for us to take our first

step and face the consequences or the hardships we are about to face, by which the

spider portrays in the poem. Additionally, the last line saying “and the itsy-bitsy spider

climbed up the spout again.” indicates the success of the spider’s journey after

everything he went through, this characteristic of the spider can be connected in a real-

life situation, where people tend to achieve their success by showing full determination

and perseverance in things that they do. The period expresses the feelings that the poem

conveys, including happiness at the spider's success in climbing the waterspout and

gives emphasis on the challenges it faced.

Moreover, the enjambment technique in this poetry serves to create a sense of

fluidity and continuity throughout the spider’s journey. It represents the spider's ups and

downs as he climbs the water spout to flow continuously from one line to the next,

showing the spider's persistent and continuous efforts. The absence of punctuation at the
end of each line symbolizes the spider's determination to keep climbing despite the

challenges it faces, making the enjambment technique as a subtle but effective way to

emphasize the poem’s message of resilience and perseverance.

2. Magtanim ay di biro

Table 1: Tabular Presentation of the Figures of Sense (Meaning)

Sense (Meaning) Excerpt in the Text

1. Visual Imagery 1st Verse: Magtanim ay di biro

Maghapong nakayuko

Di naman makatayo

Di naman makaupo

3rd Verse: Sa umagang pag-gising

Ang lahat iisipin

Kung saan may patanim

May masarap na pagkain

5th Verse: Halina, halina, mga kaliyag,

Tayo’y magsipag-unat-unat.

Magpanibago tayo ng lakas

Para sa araw ng bukas

Para sa araw ng bukas!

2. Tactile Imagery 2nd & 4th Verse:

Braso ko'y namamanhid

Baywang ko'y nangangawit.

Binti ko'y namimintig

 Sa pagkababad sa tubig.

3. Symbolism  Maghapon – All day

 Masipag – Work hard

 Lakas – Strength

 Kaliyag – Companion

4. Theme: Perseverance, Hard work, Resilience - Magtanim ay di biro

Resilience Maghapong nakayuko

Di naman makatayo

Di naman makaupo

Perseverance - Braso ko'y namamanhid

Baywang ko'y nangangawit.

Binti ko'y namimintig

Sa pagkababad sa tubig.

Hard work - Halina, halina, mga kaliyag,

Tayo’y magsipag-unat-unat.

Magpanibago tayo ng lakas

Para sa araw ng bukas

Para sa araw ng bukas!

The figurative sense of the poetry holds both visual and tactile imagery which is

seen in the whole nursery rhyme. In terms of its visual imagery, it is seen in the 1st, 3rd,

and 5th stanzas wherein the reader can grasp the visual representation of the excerpt in

the given text considering how it describes the situations of the everyday lives of

farmers. The text offers the readers a mental image of the routines of the farmers when

planting
rice, which is also the case wherein the poetry contains a sense of tactile imagery

describing the exhaustion farmers feel in their bodies as they continue to live day by

day. Furthermore, consider the title of the poem or nursery rhyme which is “Magtanim

ay di biro” wherein the readers themselves may automatically acquire a hint as to its

theme of perseverance, hard work, and patience.

Furthermore, the symbols given in the poem are the words maghapon (all day),

magsipag (work hard), lakas (strength), kaliyag (companion), these words are believed

to be emphasized in the poem that gives prominence to the everyday lives of the farmers

themselves. As readers go through the text, it mainly embodies the struggles and

exhaustion of farmers, and how they continue to persevere throughout the day which

can be observed in the 2nd and 4th stanzas of the poem. In addition to their

perseverance, the hard work of the community is also present in the excerpt wherein it is

emphasized in the 5th or last stanza of the poem. Lastly, the resilience of each farmer is

also taken credit in the 1st stanza of the poem wherein it gives the readers an idea as to

how planting rice is no joke.

Table 2: Tabular Presentation of the Figures of Sound (Rhythm)

Sound (Rhythm) Excerpt in the Text

1. Assonance (1) Magtanim ay di biro

(2) Maghapong nakayuko

(3) Di man lang makaupo

(4) Di man lang makatayo

(5) Braso ko'y namamanhid

 (6) Baywang ko'y nangangawit.

(7) Binti ko'y namimitig

(9) Sa umagang paggising

(11) Kung saan may patanim

(12) May masarap na pagkain.

(13) Braso ko'y namamanhid

(14) Baywang ko'y nangangawit.

(15) Binti ko'y namimitig

(17) Halina, halina, mga kaliyag,

(18) Tayo'y magsipag-unat-unat.

(19) Magpanibago tayo ng landas

(20) Para sa araw ng bukas

(21) Para sa araw ng bukas!

2. Consonance (9) Sa umagang paggising

3. Rhyme Scheme (1) Magtanim ay di biro (A)

(2) Maghapong nakayuko (A)

(3) Di naman makaupo (A)

(4) Di naman makatayo (A)

(5) Braso ko'y namamanhid (B)

(6) Baywang ko'y nangangawit. (C)

(7) Binti ko'y namimitig (D)

(8) Sa pagkababad sa tubig. (D)

(9) Sa umagang paggising (E)

(10) Ang lahat iisipin (F)

(11) Kung saan may patanim (G)

(12) May masarap na pagkain. (F)

(13) Braso ko'y namamanhid (B)

(14) Baywang ko'y nangangawit. (C)

(15) Binti ko'y namimitig (D)

(16) Sa pagkababad sa tubig. (D)

(17) Halina, halina, mga kaliyag, (H)

(18) Tayo'y magsipag-unat-unat. (I)

(19) Magpanibago tayo ng landas (J)

(20) Para sa araw ng bukas (J)

(21) Para sa araw ng bukas! (J)

4. Types of Rhyme Masculine Rhyme/Perfect Rhyme:

Lines 1, 2, 3, and 4: biro, nakayuko,

makatayo, and makaupo

Lines 7 and 8, and 15 and 16: namimitig

and tubig

Lines 10 and 12: iisipin and pagkain

Lines 19, 20, and 21: landas and bukas

Half Rhyme:

Lines 7 and 8: namimintig and tubig

Lines 10 and 12: iisipin and pagkain

Lines 15 and 16: namimintig and tubig

Lines 19, 20, and 21: landas and bukas

5. Repetition of Words Line 17: Halina

Line 18: unat

6. Repetition of Phrases Lines 3 and 4: Di man lang

Lines 5 and 13: Braso ko’y namamanhid

Lines 6 and 14: Baywang ko’y

nangangawit

Lines 7 and 15: Binti ko’y namimitig

Lines 8 and 16: Sa pagkababad sa tubig

Lines 20 and 21: Para sa araw ng bukas

7. Foot in Poetry: (The capital and bold letters are the accented

There is no fixed pattern of foot syllables)

MAG TAnim ay di BIro

in this nursery rhyme.

MagHApong naKAyuko

Di man LANG MAKAupo

Di man LANG

MAKAtayo

BRAso KO’Y naMAmanhid

BAYwang KO’Y nangaNGAwit.

BINti KO’Y namiMItig

Sa PAGkababad sa TUbig.

SA uMAgang PAG gising

Ang LAhat iIsipin

KUNG SAan may PAtanim

May MAsarap na PAGkain.

BRAso KO’Y naMAmanhid

BAYwang KO’Y nangaNGAwit

BINti KO’Y namiMItig

Sa PAGkababad sa TUbig.

HaLIna, HaLIna, mga kaLIyag,

TAyo'y MAGsipag-unat-unat.

MagPAniBAgo TAyo ng lanDAS

 PAra sa Araw ng BUkas

PAra sa Araw NG BUkas!

The nursery rhyme “Magtanim ay di biro” has a rhyme scheme of AAAA BCDD

EFGF BCDD HIJJJ, which sets the mood and tone of the poem and creates some

variation in the tone. This kind of rhyme scheme is an irregular rhyme scheme because

it does not follow a regular pattern of rhyme scheme. As you could observe, from the

AAAA pattern of rhyme scheme in the 1st stanza, it changed to the BCDD pattern of

rhyme scheme in the 2nd stanza and changed again to the EFGF pattern of rhyme scheme

in the 3rd stanza, then back to the BCDD pattern in the 4th stanza and changed to the

HIJJJ pattern of rhyme scheme in the 5th stanza. Despite the inconsistency of rhyme

scheme pattern in this nursery rhyme, there are still other lines that share the same end

rhymes, just like the lines in the 1st standza have the same end rhyme, which is the

sound /o/ in the words biro, nakayuko, makaupo, and makatayo, while in the 2nd and 4th

stanzas, only the 7th and 8th lines as well as the 15th and 16th lines have the same end

rhyme, which is the sound /ig/ in the words namimitig and tubig. In the 3rd stanza, the

10th and 12th have the same end rhyme, and that is the sound /in/ in the words iisipin and

pagkain. Lastly, in the 5th stanza, the 19th, 20th, and 21st lines have the same end rhyme,

which is the sound /as/ in the words landas and bukas. The kind of rhyme that is present

in these words is masculine rhyme or perfect rhyme since only one syllable in every

word has the same rhyme, such as the words nakayuko and makaupo, and namimitig

and tubig. Also, the presence of half rhyme is also observed in words such as iisipin and

pagkain, namimitig and tubig, and landas and bukas. In addition, the rhymes of the

poem (perfect and half rhyme) add the

stylistic effect and impact of the poem; which the highlighted words above are those

that allows the readers to convey meaning of what the poem is all about and most

importantly, gives emphasis towards the daily lives of the community of farmers.

Moreover, the figures of sound or rhythm of the poem entail an assonance and a

consonance, wherein there are both vowels and consonants that are dominant within the

words in each line of each stanza that incorporates the rhythm of the nursery rhyme or

poem. Assonance can be seen in the words maghapong and nakayuko in the 2 nd line and

binti and namimitig in the 7 th line. While the consonance can be seen in the words

umagang and paggising in the 9th line. The repetition of words and phrases in the excerpt

also gives the reader or listener an idea that these words and phrases are being

emphasized because these are the ones that give clear meaning to the nursery rhyme.

The repeated use of the words "halina" and "unat" is intended to convey the message

that whenever we become tired of dealing with life's problems or circumstances or of

working tirelessly to provide for our families' daily needs, we just have to take a rest and

have some stretch to regain energy and continue working hard again. In relation to this,

the repetition of the phrases "di man lang," "braso ko'y namamanhid," "baywang ko'y

nangangawit," "binti ko'y namimitig," and "sa pagkababad sa tubig" gives the

perception that these are the hardships that the farmers are going through in their daily

lives in order to provide something to their family, and the repetition of the phrase "para

sa araw ng bukas” emphasizes perseverance that no matter how exhausting and hard it

is, we should still continue for the future that is waiting for us. Thus, the repetition of

those words and phrases in the poem provides a stronger rhythm, which in turn lets the

readers engage themselves with a strong feeling or idea that comes with conveying the

meaning of the given text.

 Furthermore, the nursery rhyme ‘Magtanim ay di biro’ has an inconsistent foot

that makes it hard to identify which foot is dominant in this nursery rhyme. For instance,

in the first line, there is a presence of a spondee in the word magtanim; however, the

next words were unable to identify what foot was used. While in the 3 rd and 4th lines,

Anapest was observed, followed by Spondee and Pyrrhic (Di man LANG MAKAupo),

and the next lines that follow have the same condition wherein they have inconsistencies

in foot use. Since there are inconsistencies in foot, it is also hard to know what is the

meter of this nursery rhyme. Hence, this nursery rhyme is free verse since it does not

have a fixed pattern of rhyme scheme, foot, and meter.

Table 3: Tabular Presentation of the Figures of Structure (Sign)

Structure (Sign) Excerpt in the Text

1. Stanzas 5

2. Lines  Quatrain in the 1st to 4th stanzas

(1) Magtanim ay 'di biro

(2) Maghapong nakayuko

(3) Di man lang makaupo

(4) 'Di man lang makatayo

(5) Braso ko'y namamanhid

(6) Baywang ko'y nangangawit

(7) Binti ko'y namimitig

(8) Sa pagkababad sa tubig

 (9) Sa umagang paggising

(10) Ang lahat iisipin

(11) Kung saan may patanim

(12) May masarap na pagkain

(13) Braso ko'y namamanhid

(14) Baywang ko'y nangangawit

(15) Binti ko'y namimitig

(16) Sa pagkababad sa tubig

 Cinquain in the 5th stanza

(17) Halina, halina, mga kaliyag

(18) Tayo'y magsipag-unat-unat

(19) Magpanibago tayo ng landas

(20) Para sa araw ng bukas

(21) Para sa araw ng bukas

3. Punctuation Line 17: Comma (,)

In terms of the poem’s structure, the nursery rhyme contains 5 stanzas consist of

quatrain (4 lines) in the 1st to 4th stanzas and cinquain in the 5th stanza which is just

enough to tackle the hardships that a farmer is dealing with while being in a rice mill

and showing how perseverance and hard-working a farmer is for the future that is

waiting. However, the variation of the number of lines in the 5 th stanza among the other

stanzas makes this nursery rhyme a free verse. The observed inconsistencies in the

pattern of rhyme scheme, foot, meter, and now the versification of this nursery rhyme

only prove that this nursery

rhyme is a free verse. Since free verse gives freedom to choose words without being

strict with its rhymes, foot, meter, and other elements. This could also give us the

same kind of interpretation. Perhaps this nursery rhyme wants to tell us that the

farmers also want freedom from their exhausting everyday duties as farmers, or

specifically, freedom from poverty. That is why, despite all the hardship that they

are experiencing, they are still working hard for the future that waits for them

because they believe that with perseverance and determination, they can achieve

success and be free from the kind of hardship that they are experiencing at this

current time.

Moreover, the punctuation, specifically a comma (,) in line 17, might convey

the meaning of rest. The comma (,) between the words halina and halina could give

us an interpretation of being calm while encouraging others to take some rest. This

line may tell us that farmers should get some rest in their exhausting everyday

routine to regain energy and continue working again. So, the idea of giving up will

never be in their minds for the sake of the good future that is waiting for them. Thus,

"Magtanim ay di biro" is more than any simple and child-like song; it is held as a

piece of Filipino cultural heritage. Wherein it teaches the readers important lessons

about perseverance, community, environmental responsibility, and hard labor

through its straightforward yet meaningful rhymes. As a work of literature, it acts as

a mirror, illuminating the people of the Philippines' agrarian roots and resilient

character.
 III. USE OF FILIPINO RHYMES:

‘ITSY BITSY SPIDER’ AND ‘MAGTANIM AY DI BIRO’

IN INTERDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION

The Itsy Bitsy Spider is quite a well-known nursery rhyme that most 21st-

century folks all around the world grew up with. It is a very good lesson for children

to learn the value of resilience, consistency, and perseverance through storms and

sunshine, as depicted by the story embedded in the rhyme. It showcases man's battle

with the struggles of life, yet is painted in a way that's tailored to a child's

understanding.

We found it rather parallel in theme with the Filipino rhyme, Magtanim ay Di

Biro. Although the said rhyme is more centered on the work of Filipino farmers, it is

still relevant in a way that it highlights the same value of resilience and perseverance

through rough times. This teaches children to strive for one's aim and to never back

down when things turn uneasy. Whether it be a spider or a farmer in this matter, both

share the same idea that can change a child's point-of-view of how to attack obstacles.

If given thought, why is the animal present in the former rhyme a spider?

What does this indicate or imply? Perhaps a spider in a world such as this is a very

vulnerable living being compared to the rest of the world, and to think about its size

relative to a heavy downpour is such a huge threat to its very life. The vivid imagery

presented in the tabulation showcases a good picture of a mere spider being washed

out by heavy rain, and yet despite hitting rock bottom, it endured the same path and

continued to reach the top of the water spout that symbolized our journey in life, and

the gushing water symbolized the problems that sometimes come in altogether

unpredictably and drove us back to zero all over again. This was compared to the

theme of the latter rhyme, Magtanim ay Di Biro, which highlighted farmers who are

continuously bending over to

the ground just so they could finish a day's work. Despite the fact that two subjects are

completely far apart, we could say that a spider and a farmer could both represent

humanity as a whole, especially through the lens of a child. A spider is an animal that is

not attractive to children. In fact, most children hate and fear spiders. The question is:

why did the maker of this rhyme use a spider as the subject for symbolism in a

children's rhyme when it is indeed not something that children commonly adore? This

tells us that spiders, although dreadful to look at, are also creatures who are fighting

their way through life. Like people, we are not pleasing to the eyes of most, but we are

all fighting equal battles, and that is what children are meant to perceive. Not even the

scariest creatures that they find fearsome can face everything in this world. We are all

equally weak in one way or another, yet we must find a way to overcome that weakness

and continue to move forward. Just as farmers, they are symbols of Filipino labor and

are good models for young Filipinos to look up to, especially in terms of hard work and

resilience. They are good examples for children to cement their admiration, showing

that despite living the same tough routine with every rising of the sun, they live life

optimistically and from a positive perspective. Just like spiders in the animal kingdom,

farmers are also one of the lowest in terms of human hierarchical status, yet they are one

of the happiest. This is for the very reason that they remain grateful and content while

persevering in their daily grind. This is an important value that children must learn.

Hence, they are both similarly helpful in shaping a child's outlook on life at a young age

that's easy for them to digest.

These two rhymes are perfectly suited for children to basically interpret the

vision of one's dreams and how to be resilient when it comes to reaching for them. Life

is full of challenges and a sudden overflow of problems that may arise anytime in our

lives. Even
in the best parts, there are sudden drops of problems, and children must learn to look at

life from a point of view that's not all according to their plans. There will come a time

when they will encounter slips and falls, but the important thing is to know when to get

back up and to continue. These rhymes symbolize humanity as also smaller pieces of a

bigger picture, and yet we all crawl in the hopes of reaching the top of each one's water

spout or each one's tomorrow. Hence, children should look at life like the spider and a

farmer: resilient, persevering, enduring, consistent, and grateful.

IV. CONCLUSION

While on the surface, "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Magtanim Ay Di Biro" may seem

like unrelated nursery rhymes originating from different cultural contexts— the former

being a popular English nursery rhyme which is also popular in the local Filipino

culture and the latter which is a traditional-famous Filipino folk song— shares a

common thematic thread that transcends cultural boundaries. Both songs convey a

message of resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges, using metaphors

rooted in nature to impart valuable life lessons.

"Itsy Bitsy Spider" tells the story of a small spider that faces obstacles, such as

rain, which washes it out, and sunshine, which dries it up. However, despite these

challenges, the spider perseveres and climbs up the spout again, symbolizing the

resilience required to overcome setbacks which are also relatable to real-life

experiences.

On the other hand, "Magtanim Ay Di Biro" is a Filipino folk song that revolves

around the act of planting, emphasizing the hard work and patience required in

agriculture. The lyrics describe the challenges of planting, including the physical labor

and struggle involved, and the uncertainties of weather. Yet, the song also encourages
perseverance, suggesting that despite the difficulties and struggles we face in the real

world, all will eventually come to place wherein we, as readers convey such meaning

that the act of planting seeds will eventually lead to a bountiful harvest.

In essence, both nursery rhymes share a common theme of resilience,

perseverance, and the willingness to face challenges head-on. They teach children and

listeners valuable life lessons about perseverance and the belief that effort, no matter

how small, can lead to positive outcomes. The universality of these themes underscores

the power of nursery rhymes to convey timeless messages that resonate across different

cultures and languages.

 V. REFERENCES

Baldwin, E. (2023, February 19). Itsy bitsy spider. Poem Analysis.

https://poemanalysis.com/nursery-rhyme/itsy-bitsy-spider/

WordPress. (2009, September). Magtanim ay di biro. Retrieved October 15, 2023, from
https://philippinefolksongs.wordpress.com/2009/09/29/magtanim-ay-di-biro/

VI. APPENDICES

1. Itsy Bitsy Spider

(1) The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the waterspout.

(2) Down came the rain

(3) and washed the spider out.

(4) Out came the sun

(5) and dried up all the rain

(6) and the itsy bitsy spider climbed up the spout again.
2. Magtanim ay di biro

(1) Magtanim ay 'di biro

(2) Maghapong nakayuko

(3) Di man lang makaupo

(4) 'Di man lang makatayo

(5) Braso ko'y namamanhid

(6) Baywang ko'y nangangawit

(7) Binti ko'y namimitig

(8) Sa pagkababad sa tubig

(9) Sa umagang paggising

(10) Ang lahat iisipin

(11) Kung saan may patanim

(12) May masarap na pagkain

(13) Braso ko'y namamanhid

(14) Baywang ko'y nangangawit

(15) Binti ko'y namimitig

(16) Sa pagkababad sa tubig

(17) Halina, halina, mga kaliyag

(18) Tayo'y magsipag-unat-unat

(19) Magpanibago tayo ng landas

(20) Para sa araw ng bukas

(21) Para sa araw ng bukas