1. Realistic and Social Realist Approach: Bautista's writing is grounded in reality, depicting the lives of ordinary Filipinos, particularly those from marginalized communities. She focuses on social issues like poverty, inequality, and gender discrimination, exploring the struggles of everyday people with authenticity and empathy.
2. Strong Female Characters: Her novels feature strong, independent female characters who navigate complex societal structures and personal challenges. These characters are often portrayed as resilient, resourceful, and capable of overcoming adversity.
3. Straightforward and Evocative Language: Bautista's prose is clear, concise, and evocative. She uses simple yet powerful language to create vivid imagery and convey emotions effectively. Her writing is accessible to a wide audience, but it also possesses a depth that invites contemplation and reflection.
4. Social Commentary and Critique: Bautista's works are infused with social commentary, often critiquing societal norms, political systems, and power dynamics. She uses storytelling to raise awareness about issues that are often overlooked or silenced.
5. Use of Humor and Irony: Bautista incorporates humor and irony into her narratives to highlight the absurdity of certain situations and to provide moments of levity amidst the struggles faced by her characters.
6. Blend of Realism and Magic Realism: In some of her novels, she seamlessly blends elements of realism with magical realism, creating a heightened sense of reality and exploring the complexities of the human experience.
7. Focus on Family and Community: Bautista's novels often explore the importance of family and community, particularly for Filipinos. These bonds serve as sources of strength and support for characters navigating challenging circumstances.
8. Use of Filipino Language and Culture: While Bautista's novels are typically written in English, she often incorporates Tagalog and other Filipino languages into her dialogues and descriptions, adding an authentic cultural flavor to her narratives.
9. Emphasis on Historical Context: Bautista's work often reflects historical events and societal changes, highlighting the impact of the past on the present and the characters' lives.
Overall, Lualhati Bautista's writing style is characterized by its realism, social commentary, strong female characters, and evocative language. Her novels offer powerful and insightful glimpses into the Filipino experience, raising important social issues and celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.