Hymn To Labor

Jose Rizal’s patriotism is shown in this poem “Hymn To Labor” where he urged his fellowmen to strive and work for their country whether in war or in peace.

Sa Aking Mga Kababata

As a very young poet, Jose Rizal wrote this poem in Tagalog at the age of 8. Another English version was translated by Nick Joaquin.

Song of the Wanderer

In this poem, Rizal talks about the loneliness of being a wanderer and the heartbreak of being a stranger in his motherland after being away for so long.

Pen Names Used by Jose Rizal

Jose Rizal, who was known for his strong criticisms against the Spaniards, could not have written all his essays and poems if he used his real name. Here are some of the pen names that he used.

Noli Me Tangere

Noli Me Tangere is a Latin phrase that means “Touch Me Not”. In this novel, Rizal described in detail the sufferings of his countrymen under the Spanish rule.

To Josephine

Josephine Bracken

Rizal wrote this poem for Josephine Bracken, an Irish woman who went to Dapitan to have her father George Taufer treated for an eye problem.