Marianne Chan reads "Some Words of the Aforesaid Heathen Peoples”

The transcript explores the significance of a poem central to a collection, reflecting on Antonio Pigafetta's list of Bisaya words and the exclusion of the word for 'mother'. It delves into the author's family history, cultural identity, and language, highlighting the impact of colonial narratives. The narrative intertwines personal memories with broader themes of heritage and future concerns, ultimately reflecting on the importance of preserving cultural identity and language.

How does the author describe their mother's relationship with food and its impact on her life?

What role does language play in the author's connection to their heritage?

What does the author mean by saying their daughter will enter the world with 'three navels'?