UNEARTHING BULOSAN’S “LIFE AND DEATH OF A FILIPINO IN AMERICA” THROUGH MARXIST LENS

Abstract

Carlos P. Bulosan’s literary works have attracted significant interest from both language and literary researchers, not only for his unique narrative style but also for the wealth of data available for scholarly exploration. While much of the existing criticism has focused on Bulosan’s novels through feminist, sociological, and historical lenses, there remains a notable gap in addressing his short stories and employing other literary frameworks. This study aimed to fill that gap by conducting a qualitative content analysis of Bulosan’s short story “Life and Death of a Filipino in America,” utilizing Marxism as an approach to literary analysis alongside thematic analysis. Through a meticulous examination of the text, this literary analysis identified key Marxist features, namely: base, superstructure, alienation, and class struggles depicted in the text. The findings primarily highlighted the author’s emphasis on the vital role of labor unions and the importance of solidarity among marginalized communities as essential means for challenging the dominance of the ruling class. Ultimately, this study not only enriches the understanding of Bulosan’s literary legacy but also contributes to broader discussions about identity, belonging, and the quest for dignity in the face of systemic oppression, making it a significant addition to the field of literary analysis.