Philippine E-Journals

Tradition of Protest in Philippine Literature

Cirilo F. Bautista

Discipline: Cultural Studies

 

Abstract:

Philippine literature continues to be written under conditions of stress. Indeed, the evolution of Philippine literature has been marked by circumstances of tension and suspension created by historical exigencies, on the one hand, and factors of growth on the other: the shapes, qualities, and direction of this literature are proximate reactions to history and to the structure of national governmental priorities. The writer consequently, cannot avoid being committed, consciously or unconsciously, to certain principles and viewpoints that crystallize and synthesize these reactions. Dispassionate judgement becomes a chimera. In the midst of cultural upheavals and spiritual dislocation, the writer is the interpreter of his country's past and the prophet of its future. He is qualified for these works because he has always been involved.