Tsinelas
Garcia, Kimberly G. August 24, 2012
ENG 10 – WFW5 Concept Paper (Final Draft); 1,910 words
Juan Dela Cruz’s Flip Flops
The capacity to think introspectively – to wonder about the world within – is one that is unique to mankind, and one that has led to age-old search for identity. Perhaps more intriguing than questions about the physical are questions about the world that cannot be seen, but that is felt in every aspect of life. This unseen world comprises things that may seem mundane, such as beliefs, principles, traditions, and culture, but those are an essential part of the fabric of human nature. This unseen world is the world of identity.
Because the Filipinos are a diverse group, this question is of great interest. What is distinctly Filipino, and what does this translate to in terms of who the Filipino is? To answer this, at least in part, an artifact of culture must be found that transcends regional boundaries and socioeconomic status. This object, albeit in varying forms, is a quite essential part of the Filipino household. And for a people of an island nation, it has become an extension of the body itself. This paper aims to draw insights about Filipino identity from an object so familiar, so simple; yet one that has been a part of every Filipino’s life – the tsinelas. It defines the tsinelas as not only a staple footwear in the Philippines but also a reflection of what being Filipino is.
In construction, basic rubber slippers are very simple. The body of these rubber shoes is nothing more than a comfortable sole; the foot rests on the sole, which is secured to the front area of the foot in one of two ways. The traditional design includes a simple band that spans the top of the foot in the area between the instep and the toes. Attached to this band is a small loop that fits neatly between the big and second toes. The heel of the slipper is left open, allowing it to flop as the individual walks (”What are Rubber Slippers?”).
ENG 10 – WFW5 Concept Paper (Final Draft); 1,910 words
Juan Dela Cruz’s Flip Flops
The capacity to think introspectively – to wonder about the world within – is one that is unique to mankind, and one that has led to age-old search for identity. Perhaps more intriguing than questions about the physical are questions about the world that cannot be seen, but that is felt in every aspect of life. This unseen world comprises things that may seem mundane, such as beliefs, principles, traditions, and culture, but those are an essential part of the fabric of human nature. This unseen world is the world of identity.
Because the Filipinos are a diverse group, this question is of great interest. What is distinctly Filipino, and what does this translate to in terms of who the Filipino is? To answer this, at least in part, an artifact of culture must be found that transcends regional boundaries and socioeconomic status. This object, albeit in varying forms, is a quite essential part of the Filipino household. And for a people of an island nation, it has become an extension of the body itself. This paper aims to draw insights about Filipino identity from an object so familiar, so simple; yet one that has been a part of every Filipino’s life – the tsinelas. It defines the tsinelas as not only a staple footwear in the Philippines but also a reflection of what being Filipino is.
In construction, basic rubber slippers are very simple. The body of these rubber shoes is nothing more than a comfortable sole; the foot rests on the sole, which is secured to the front area of the foot in one of two ways. The traditional design includes a simple band that spans the top of the foot in the area between the instep and the toes. Attached to this band is a small loop that fits neatly between the big and second toes. The heel of the slipper is left open, allowing it to flop as the individual walks (”What are Rubber Slippers?”).
Cited: “Games Played by the Native Children in the Philippines.” Uupcc.org. n.d. Web. 4 Aug. 2012. Patajo-Legasto, Priscelina City: The University of the Philippines Press, 2008. 421. Print. Smith, Diana. “The Evolution of Flip Flops.” Ezine Articles. Ezinearticles.com, 23 Jan. 2011. Web “Tumbang-Preso.” Tagalog Lang: Filipino Culture. n.d. Web. 4 Aug. 2012.