What inspired Jose Rizal to write poem?

His strong sense of cultural pride reflects in the part where he wanted the Filipino youth to use their capabilities, talents and skills to stand out not only for their own praise and success but also for the praise and success of their own motherland. He indicated in the poem, "run for genius sacred flame, awaits the artist's crowning." He is challenging the youth through this poem to refine and nurture their talents in the arts.