Symbolism
Many who have seen The Claws of Light have speculated on the symbolism of the characters. For example, some comment that Ligaya Paraiso represents Inang Bayan ("mother country" in English). Her name, literally translated in English as "joyful paradise", is a reference to how Julio saw her as his love interest because she was his paradise.
Julio Madiaga is regarded as a symbol of the typical Filipino coming from a province, living in hard conditions and suffering the pains given by the civilized hell of the city. His surname translated in English means "patience", a trait observed as he looks for Ligaya with hope and possibilities.
Mrs. Cruz is another example. Her surname, "Cruz", simply translates as "cross", a reference to the heavy burden the prostitutes have to bear. The antagonistic Ah-Tek is also considered an example; the character's name is derived from the Filipino word atik which is translated as "money", representing the greed and selfishness of the character.
The city itself is considered to be the main character, not Julio or any of the characters. The film is also presented as a portrait of one man's corruption and downfall.
Read more about this topic: The Claws Of Light
Famous quotes containing the word symbolism:
“...I remembered the rose bush that had reached a thorny branch out through the ragged fence, and caught my dress, detaining me when I would have passed on. And again the symbolism of it all came over me. These memories and visions of the poor—they were the clutch of the thorns. Social workers have all felt it. It holds them to their work, because the thorns curve backward, and one cannot pull away.”
—Albion Fellows Bacon (1865–1933)