UNIT I. LESSON 5.
LITERATURE
IN THE LATE 20TH CENTURY
LEARNING TARGETS
To identify the geographic, linguistic, and ethnic
dimensions of Philippine literary history in the late
20th century;
To identify the representative texts, genres, and
authors of the late 20th century;
To appreciate the contributions of the canonical
Filipino writers to the development of national
literature;
LEARNING TARGETS
To analyze the literary techniques and devices in the
text;
To situate texts in the context of the region and the
nation;
To explain the sociocultural context and discuss how
it enhances the text’s meaning and enriches the
reader’s understanding; and
To explain the relationship of the context with the
text’s meaning.
INTRODUCTION
The dramatic political scene of our country in
the late 20th century shaped the literature at this
time. Philippine writers reacted to oppression,
censorship, and changes in government. By this
point in our history, our literature has become
multi-faceted in terms of language use and literary
genre.
HOW THE EVOLUTION UNFOLDED
The 1987 constitution identified Filipino and
English as the two official languages of the country.
Amado V. Hernandez who was named National
Artist for Literature published “ Bayang Malaya” in
1970. This narrative poem recalls the Japanese
occupation through the eyes of proletariat
characters like Tanggol, Tala, and Lantay.
HOW THE EVOLUTION UNFOLDED
The dictatorship recognized the power of literature to open
the minds of the Filipinos.
Publications like “ Philippine Free Press” and
“Philippine Graphic” were shut down consequently.
Writers came up with an underground literature movement
that continued to express the voice of dissatisfaction.
Such underground efforts included “ Kamao, Panitikan ng
Protesta” ( 1970-1986), “ Versus” ( 1986), and “ STR” ( 1989).
HOW THE EVOLUTION UNFOLDED
All-time greats in the novel genre during this
period included “ The Praying Man” (1982) by NVM
Gonzales, Great Philippine Jungle Energy Café”
( 1987) by Alfred Yuson, “ Planet Waves” ( 1989) by
Eric Gamalinda, “Bamboo in the Wind” (1990) by
Asundon Grajo Uranza, “ Dog Eaters” (1990) by
Jessica Hagedorn , “ The Honey , The Locusts”
( 1992) by Lina Espina-Moore, and “Killing Time in
a Warm Place” ( 1992) by Jose Y. Dalisay Jr.
HOW THE EVOLUTION UNFOLDED
In 1981, another award-giving body was
established : The Manila Critics Circle, which
tendered accolade upon literary texts in English,
Filipino, and other local languages.
A plethora of genres reflects the abundance of
local cultures across archipelago.
UNLOCKING OF DIFFICULT WORDS
1. tinsel - threads, strips,or sheets of metal , paper
or plastic used to produce a glittering and sparkling
appearance in fabrics, yarns or decorations
2. tantalize – tease or torment by or as if by
presenting something desirable to the view but
continually keeping it out of reach
3. molasses - a thick, dark brown liquid that is
produced during the process of making sugar, used in
cooking
UNLOCKING OF DIFFICULT WORDS
4. plethora – plenty, abundance, embarrassment of
riches
5. palate – a person’s appreciation of taste and flavor
especially when sophisticated and discriminating
6. pastry - a dough that is used to make pies and
other baked goods and typically has a high fat content
7. meringue - is a dessert topping consisting of a
baked mixture of stiffly beaten egg whites and sugar
SELECTION IN FOCUS
The diversity of our contemporary literature is
reflected in the essay. “ Puto –Bumbong, Bibingka,
Salabat , atbp.
As you read the text, appreciate how the author
vividly illustrates the varied experiences with food
that Filipinos enjoy during a traditionally vibrant
time of the year.
SELECTION IN FOCUS
Read on pages 51-58 in the textbook.
THE AUTHOR
Doreen Gamboa Fernandez - (28 October 1934 – 24
June 2002) was a Filipino professor, historian, writer and
critic best known for her writings on Filipino food, food
culture, and the theater arts. Apart from many books
and academic articles, she wrote a regular column on
food and dining for the Philippine Daily Inquirer. She
taught English at Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU),
serving also as head of the Communication Department
and moderator of the student newspaper.
ANALYSIS OF THE SELECTION
1. What particular season does the essay focus on? Have you
tried any of the seasonal foods mentioned in the essay? If so,
which ones?
2. Describe the author’s style of writing. What techniques make
her portrayal of food effective?
3. Comment on the essay’s historical dimension. What
information does the essay give about our country’s past
colonizers?
4. Name other occasions in our country that also feature a
seasonal set of food. Why do you think Filipinos favor specific food
for specific seasons?
