Of Pinoy Pride and American Dreams: A Historical Criticism of Air Castles by Juan F. Salazar

Imagine perching by the windowsill, gazing into the sky, and constructing elaborate castles in your mind—beautiful structures that exist only in the realm of imagination. Dreams, ambitions, and goals are synonymous, often rooted in make-believe and reality. Despite their abstract nature, dreams provide direction, motivation, and purpose in life. They inspire us to set goals, overcome obstacles, and pursue our passions, fostering creativity, innovation, and personal growth for a fulfilling life. Amidst adversity during an era of blood and bombings, Juan F. Salazar wrote "Air Castles," a piece resonating with Filipinos who dared to dream despite the challenges of their time. "Air Castles" reflects the aspirations of a Filipino writer and serves as a voice for those seeking to discover their identity, guided by the legacies of past writers. This paper, through the historical lens of literary criticism, unveils the influence of time on literature. It examines how "Air Castles" mirrors the socio-political context of its creation and explores the interplay between colonialism and literature in the Philippine setting. This study highlights the enduring power of dreams and their significant role in shaping literature and history.