Top 6 Best Essays on 'Talking to My Child' by Y Phuong for 9th Grade

Basic Knowledge

- Y Phương is a poet from the Tày ethnic group. He was born in 1948 in Trùng Khánh district, Cao Bằng province. Y Phương served in the military from 1968 to 1981. Since 1993, he has been the Chairman of the Cao Bằng Literature and Arts Association. His poetry reflects a sincere, strong, and pure soul, with an imagery-rich thinking typical of mountain people.

Reading - Understanding the Text

Question 1 - Page 73 Textbook

Through the metaphor of speaking to his child, the poet evokes the origins of each individual's growth and the enduring vitality of his homeland. How is the structure of the poem designed to convey this idea?

Answer

- The poem "Talking to My Child" is inspired by a deep love for children, the hope that future generations will carry on the legacy of their ancestors, their nation, and their homeland. The father’s intimate tone in advising his child adds warmth, affection, and trust to the poem.

- The poem consists of two parts:

• "Right foot steps to father... The first day is the best in life": The child grows up with love and support from parents, surrounded by the beauty of their homeland.

• "The people of my homeland love you so much, child... Listen, my dear": The poem expresses pride in the vitality and noble traditions of the homeland, with the father’s wish that his child will honor and continue these traditions.

The structure of these two stanzas effectively conveys the content of the poem, from family feelings to national pride, from personal memories to life’s larger meaning.

Question 2 - Page 73 Textbook

You grew up with the love of your parents and the support of your homeland. Find and analyze the verses that express this sentiment.

Answer

Right foot steps to father

Left foot steps to mother

One step touches the voice

Two steps reach the laughter

- Through vivid imagery and symbolic expression, these four lines depict the love, care, joy, and anticipation of the parents.

- The child also grows in the laborious life and beautiful nature of the homeland, symbolized by the lines:

Weave the fishnet, tying the flowers

The walls of the house echo the songs.

The verbs "tie" and "echo" not only describe specific tasks but also reflect the bond with the land. The homeland is portrayed as poetic and nurturing, providing both a spiritual and physical shelter for the people:

The forest gives flowers

The path gives warm hearts.

Question 3 - Page 73 Textbook

What noble virtues of the "people of my homeland" does the father share with his child? How does he remind the child to live by these virtues?

Answer

- The "people of my homeland" live with resilience and openness, bound closely to their homeland despite hardships. The poet wishes for his child to have deep connections with the homeland, to face challenges with willpower:

The people of my homeland love you so much, child

Measure the sorrow

Far away, raise the big dogs

No matter what, father still wants you to know

Live on stones, never complain about rocky paths

Live in valleys, never complain about poverty

Live like rivers, like streams

Climbing mountains, crossing streams

Without fearing hardships.

- The "people of my homeland" may appear simple, but they are strong-willed, confident, and hardworking. The poet hopes his child will be proud of and carry forward the traditions of their homeland:

The people of my homeland are simple and strong

No one is small, my child

The people of my homeland carve stones to raise the homeland

And the homeland creates the customs.

Question 4 - Page 74 Textbook

How do you feel about the father’s affection for his child in this poem? What is the most important lesson the father wishes to pass on to the child through these words?

Answer

- The father speaks lovingly and carefully to his child, showing deep affection and trust.

- The greatest lesson the father wishes to impart is pride in the homeland's strength and tradition, as well as confidence in facing life’s challenges.

Question 5 - Page 74 Textbook

Comment on the poet’s use of vivid imagery to express emotions and thoughts. (Hint: People from the mountains often use rich, concrete imagery that is simple yet profound, like the lines: "Weave the fishnet, tying the flowers - The walls of the house echo the songs," and "The people of my homeland carve stones to raise the homeland...")

Answer

People from the mountains speak through vivid and striking imagery, expressing their emotions and thoughts simply yet powerfully. The images are concrete but rich in meaning, and full of poetic essence:

The people of my homeland are simple and strong

No one is small, my child

The people of my homeland carve stones to raise the homeland

And the homeland creates the customs.

My child, although simple, you will never be small

Go forth

And never feel inferior

Listen, my child

Practice

Task: Imagine you are the child in the poem. Write a short speech about your feelings and thoughts when hearing your father's words.

Suggested Points

The speech can be based on the following key points:

1. Gratitude for the love of family and the protection of the homeland that has nurtured and raised you.

2. Deep pride in the beautiful traditions of your homeland: hard work, perseverance, overcoming difficulties, and vitality.

3. Reflection on the lesson your father shared: always strive in life, overcome difficulties, and never give up or lose hope.

Question 1. Comment on the structure of the poem.

Answer:

Through the speaker's conversation with his child, Y Phuong evokes the deep roots of every person, expressing pride in the vitality and resilience of their homeland, and offering advice on life. The poem is divided into two sections:

- From the beginning to "The first day is the most beautiful day in life".

- The remaining part.

Summarize the main content of each section, then identify the emotional flow and the poet's approach to presenting the theme (moving from family emotions to those of homeland, from intimate, passionate memories to life lessons). How does this structure reveal the poem’s theme and affect the reader?

Question 2. The child is raised with love, support from parents, and the protection of their homeland. Find and analyze the images that express this idea.

Comment on the poet’s creativity in forming these images.

Answer:

When addressing this question, carefully read the first stanza of the poem, focusing on the poetic language and the expression of emotions typical of the people from the mountains. In general, the style is vivid and metaphorical, capturing simple yet powerful emotions. Y Phuong uses repetition in the syntax to create rhythm:

Step forward with your right foot towards your father

Step forward with your left foot towards your mother

One step brings you to the sound of words

Two steps bring you to the sound of laughter...

Also, analyze the descriptive and emotional value of the words "cài" and "ken" in these two lines:

"The loom weaves the flowers"

"The wall is filled with songs".

Question 3. Analyze the beauty of "the people of my homeland" as expressed in the father's words to his child.

Answer:

The beauty of "the people of my homeland" can be analyzed through different aspects:

- In their work and labor

- In family and homeland affection

- In their spirit and virtues

When analyzing each of these qualities, focus on the distinctive poetic imagery and the tone that reflects the poet’s deep affection and admiration.

Question 4. In your opinion, what is the most important message the father wants to pass on to his child through "Talking to My Child"? What significance does this have on the child's life journey?

Answer:

This question encourages personal reflection. Different people might summarize the most important message the father conveys in different ways. However, this message must relate to the emotional content and the poem's theme. It may highlight deep family affection, loyalty to one’s roots, or the pride in the people of the homeland. If we understand it fully and deeply, the greatest lesson the father wants to impart is the pride in the vitality and enduring strength of one’s heritage and the self-confidence to step into life.

Reflect on the importance of pride and self-confidence in one’s life path, both in personal growth and in their career.

Question 1 (page 73, Literature textbook 9, Volume 2)

- Part 1 (stanza 1): The father reminds the child about the origins of family and homeland.

- Part 2 (remaining): The father encourages the child to take pride in the traditions and vitality of their homeland.

Question 2 (page 73, Literature textbook 9, Volume 2)

The child grows up surrounded by the love of their parents and the protection of their homeland:

+ Right foot steps towards the father: The father always guides and is a strong support for the child.

+ Left foot steps towards the mother: The mother lovingly nurtures and protects the child.

→ The child is nurtured in the love and care of the parents.

- The child matures in the laborious life, in the beauty of nature, deeply infused with the affection of their homeland.

+ The people of my homeland are deeply cherished.

+ The loom weaves the flowers.

+ The forest gives flowers, and the roads offer the warmth of hearts.

- The diligence in work, the bond between people, and the connection between people and nature nurture the child.

→ The family foundation and the homeland’s support help the child grow.

Question 3 (page 73, Literature textbook 9, Volume 2)

- The father speaks to the child about the noble qualities of the "people of my homeland".

+ The people of my homeland are rich in emotion and love.

+ Though humble, the homeland is full of love and warmth.

+ The people of my homeland live naturally, strongly, and resiliently.

+ They are proud and dignified individuals.

+ Simple and genuine, always united and protective.

→ The father reminds the child to preserve the traditions of the "people of my homeland", to always be confident, loving, and responsible.

Question 4 (page 73, Literature textbook 9, Volume 2)

- The father's words show his boundless love and wish for the child to grow strong and steady.

- The greatest lesson the father wishes to impart is the strength to face life's challenges with resilience and courage.

Question 5 (page 74, Literature textbook 9, Volume 2)

Artistic features:

- Simple, clear, and unique expression.

- Vivid, specific images that are meaningful and generalizable.

- Tight structure and natural transitions by the author.

Practice

(page 74, Literature textbook 9, Volume 2): Place yourself in the role of ...

- The sacred, warm fatherly love.

- Admiration for the hardworking traditions and the strong vitality of the homeland and nation. Gaining a deeper appreciation for the life force and spirit of a mountain-dwelling people, growing closer to traditions, homeland, and the determination to rise in life.

- We once used lack of resources as an excuse to abandon morals and culture, yet today, many children of the ethnic groups show less enthusiasm for their traditions, willingly adopting foreign influences. Listening to the father’s words, I support integration but not assimilation. Culture is a priceless asset.

Meaning - Value

Through the poem, students will sense the warmth of family love, the hardworking traditions, and the strong vitality of the homeland and nation, as conveyed by Y Phuong. Specifically, they will feel the life force and spiritual beauty of a mountain-dwelling people, which encourages a deep connection to traditions, homeland, and a strong will to move forward in life.

Students will also appreciate the unique artistic qualities in the author's writing: the simple, rustic, and regional vocabulary, the vivid images, and the sweet, intimate tone.

Question 1 (Page 73, Vietnamese Language 9, Volume 2):

The poet uses the words spoken to his son to evoke the source of human origin, highlighting the strong and enduring vitality of his homeland. How is this idea reflected in the structure of the poem?

Answer:

The poet, through the words spoken to his son, brings attention to the origin and growth of each individual, as well as the relentless and powerful vitality of his homeland. The poem is divided into two sections:

- Section 1: (From the beginning to the line 'The first day is the most beautiful in life. You grew up in the love, protection, and support of your parents amidst the beautiful labor of our homeland.')

- Section 2: (The remainder) Proud of the strong, resilient spirit and noble traditions of the homeland, hoping that you will carry on this legacy with dignity.

The poem begins with the familial love and expands into the love for the homeland, from small, intimate memories to high ideals. It conveys emotions and ideas in a natural flow, broad yet deep in meaning.

Question 2 (Page 73, Vietnamese Language 9, Volume 2):

You grew up in the love of your parents, under the protective embrace of your homeland. Find and analyze the verses that express this idea.

Answer:

The initial part of the poem conveys the affection of the parents and the protective care of the homeland for the child.

- The first four lines vividly depict a warm, close-knit family atmosphere:

“Right foot steps to father, Left foot steps to mother, One step reaches a word, Two steps lead to a smile.”

- The child grows up day by day in the loving care and anticipation of their parents. Every step is cherished with words and smiles as the parents joyfully welcome the child.

- The child not only benefits from the love and protection of their parents, but also matures through labor, the beautiful nature, and the deep-rooted affection of the homeland:

“People of my land, love so much, my dear! Weave the loom with flowered threads, Walls are filled with songs, The forest gives flowers, The road gives hearts...”

- The vivid imagery of “Weave the loom with flowered threads, Walls are filled with songs” reflects the hardworking, joyful life of the people. The verbs “weave” and “fill” not only describe but also express the close bond and affection. Even the forest and mountains, always picturesque and poetic, nurture and protect people, both spiritually and through lifestyle: “The forest gives flowers, The road gives hearts.”

Question 3 (Page 73, Vietnamese Language 9, Volume 2):

What admirable traits does the father highlight in the 'people of my land', and how does he advise his child to approach life?

Answer:

The latter part of the poem praises the admirable qualities of the 'people of my land', urging the child to continue these values in life with honor.

- What are these qualities?

“People of my land, they are precious to me, Strong in sorrow, Far from home but nurturing great ambitions, No matter what, father always wishes, Live on the rocks without complaining about the roughness, Live in the valley without complaining about the poverty.”

- These are the people, enduring hardship but strong and free, bonded to their homeland, even when faced with poverty and struggle.

- Through these virtues, the poet wishes for the child to remain loyal to their homeland, ready to face challenges with resolve and faith:

“People of my land, rough in body, Yet no one is insignificant, They carve stones to elevate the homeland, And the homeland shapes its traditions, My child, though rough in body, Walk the path, Never feeling small.”

- Despite their humble appearance, the 'people of my land' possess immense spirit, determination, and dreams to build their homeland. They are the ones who created the beautiful traditions that have lasted through time. The poet urges the child to take pride in these traditions, to move forward with confidence and honor.

Question 4 (Page 73, Vietnamese Language 9, Volume 2):

How do you perceive the father's feelings toward his child in this poem? What is the greatest lesson the father wishes to pass on?

Answer:

The father’s feelings toward his child in this poem are filled with love, tenderness, and trust. The greatest lesson he wishes to impart is the pride in the homeland's enduring strength, the noble traditions of the land, and the confidence to face life boldly.

Question 5 (Page 73, Vietnamese Language 9, Volume 2):

What do you think of the poet's use of imagery to express feelings and thoughts? (Hint: People from the mountains often express themselves in vivid, specific, yet universal imagery with a poetic essence. For example, the first four lines of the poem and phrases such as 'Weave the loom with flowered threads' or 'The people of my land carve stones to elevate the homeland'.)

Answer:

The poet’s use of imagery to convey emotions and thoughts is unique and striking. The images are both concrete and abstract, simple yet poetic, rich in meaning and beauty.

Practice

Reference Points:

- My gratitude toward my family and the protection of the homeland that raised me.

- A deep pride in the beautiful traditions of my homeland: hard work, perseverance, overcoming hardships, and vibrant vitality.

- Reflections on the lessons my father shared: always have the will to rise in life, overcome difficulties, and never give up.

- I promise to always strive to honor my family and my homeland.

Structure

Structure: 2 parts

- Part 1: The father speaks to his child about the source of their roots.

- Part 2: The father speaks of the noble traditions of the homeland and hopes his child will continue these valuable traditions.

Main Content

The poem expresses the warm affection of family, praises the pride of the homeland, and encourages a love for one’s people and nation. It helps us understand the vitality and beauty of the spirit of a mountainous people, reminding us of the bond with our homeland and the drive to move forward in life.

A. KEY KNOWLEDGE

1. Author:

Y Phuong is a poet of the Tay ethnic group. He was born in 1948 in Trung Khanh district, Cao Bang province. Y Phuong served in the military from 1968 to 1981. Since 1993, he has been the Chairman of the Cao Bang Literary and Artistic Association. He currently resides in Hanoi.
2. Work:

Context of Creation: Published in 1980
Content: Using the voice of a father speaking to his child, the poem reflects on the roots of every individual, while expressing pride in the resilient, enduring vitality of his homeland.

B. EXERCISES AND SOLUTIONS

Question 1: Page 73 of Literature 9, Volume 2

Using the voice of a father speaking to his child, how does the poet convey the idea of the individual's roots and the strength of his homeland in the poem?

Answer:
Through the words of the father to his child, Y Phuong reflects on the roots of every individual and expresses pride in the powerful and enduring vitality of his homeland. The poem is divided into two sections:
Section 1 (from the beginning to 'The first day is the best in life'): The child grows up in the love and care of their parents, and the laborious life of the homeland.
Section 2 (the remainder): The pride in the resilient and lasting strength of the homeland and the beautiful traditions of the people, along with the hope that the child will continue this legacy.
With this structure, the poem moves from family affection to patriotism, from personal memories to the broader ideals of life.

Question 2: Page 73 of Literature 8, Volume 2
The child grows up in the love and care of their parents, in the warmth of the homeland. Find and analyze the lines that express this.

Answer:
In the first four lines, using concrete images, Y Phuong creates a warm, loving atmosphere of family:
'Right foot steps to father
Left foot steps to mother
One step touches the voice
Two steps touch the laughter'
Each step and each sound of the child is nurtured with care and joy from their parents. The love and protection parents give their child are clear. The child also grows up amidst the hard-working and cheerful life of the 'people of the homeland,' depicted through beautiful images: 'The looms weave flowers,' 'The house walls sing songs.' The verbs 'weave' and 'sing' not only describe but also reflect the deep bond people have with their homeland. The poetic images of the homeland's mountains and forests have long sheltered and nurtured the people both mentally and physically: 'The forest gives flowers,' 'The path gives hearts.'

Question 3: Page 73 of Literature 9, Volume 2
What noble qualities of the 'people of the homeland' does the father tell his child about, and what does he advise the child to do in life?

Answer:
The father speaks to his child about the noble qualities of the 'people of the homeland,' teaching that despite life's hardships, one must live with strength, freedom, and perseverance, staying connected to one's homeland even in times of poverty and struggle: 'The people of the homeland are so dear, my child / Their sorrow is high / They nourish great ambitions / Live like rivers and streams / Climb cliffs, cross rivers / Not afraid of hardship.' From this, the father wants the child to stay loyal to their roots, face challenges with determination, and build a strong future with faith and spirit. Though 'the people of the homeland' may seem 'rough in appearance,' they are full of determination and hope. They work tirelessly, nurturing the country, passing on traditions and good customs to future generations: 'The people of the homeland carve stones to elevate the land / And the land makes the customs.' By praising these noble traits, the poet urges the child to honor their homeland and carry on its legacy with pride and dignity.

Question 4: Page 74 of Literature 9, Volume 2
What is your impression of the father's feelings toward his child in the poem? What is the most important lesson the father wants to impart?

Answer:
One can sense the father's deep love, affection, and trust for his child in the poem. The child is the father's emotional anchor, someone he believes in and places his hopes upon. The love between father and child differs from that of the mother, but it is no less profound. Behind every word, the image of a father who deeply cares for his child, trusting that they will soar and achieve great things, is clearly felt. The most important lesson the father imparts is the pride in the enduring strength of the homeland and its beautiful traditions, preparing the child to enter the world with confidence and integrity. This is the foundation the father has laid for the child from their first steps and words.

Question 5: Page 74 of Literature 9, Volume 2
How do you evaluate the poet's use of imagery to express feelings and thoughts? (Suggested: The people of the mountains often express themselves in vivid, specific, simple, yet poetic ways. For example, the first four lines of the poem or lines such as 'Weave flowers on the loom,' 'The people of the homeland carve stones to elevate the land,' etc.)

Answer:
The most distinctive feature of the poem is perhaps the poet's use of imagery to express emotions and thoughts. The poem is expressed in a passionate, affectionate tone, clearly reflected in exclamatory lines: 'The people of the homeland love you so, my child,' 'The people of the homeland are so dear,' and tender instructions: 'No matter what, father still wants this,' 'No one is too small, my child,' 'Listen, child.' The poem uses specific images that are rich in meaning, simple yet poetic, such as 'Weave flowers on the loom,' 'The people of the homeland carve stones to elevate the land,' creating an emotional and evocative atmosphere.

III- PRACTICE
Assume the role of the child in Y Phuong's poem 'Talking to My Child,' and write a brief piece expressing your feelings and thoughts when hearing your father's words.

Answer:
Dear Father!
Thank you for everything. Receiving your letter made me understand how much you love me. The love you give me is like the leaves of trees in the forest, fresh like a stream in the valley. I have grown up and matured like this thanks to your care and nurturing. You have taught me the virtues that every person should have. I will live as you instructed, and I will strive to contribute to the homeland and make our country more beautiful. You have always been by my side throughout my life. When I was a child, you and mother were there with me, watching me take my first steps in life, and gradually, I have matured, with your guidance. Under your care, I have come to understand that 'the forest gives flowers,' and 'people give their hearts.' I know now how to live, contributing to the nation and the homeland. No matter how rough the road of life may be, I will 'climb cliffs, cross rivers,' and I will always strive to do all I can, never giving up in the face of adversity. Father, I will do my best to build our homeland, repay the country.
I love you, Father.