The period of the New Society, also known as the Marcos regime, significantly impacted Philippine literature. This era, marked by Martial Law, saw a period of censorship and control over creative expression.
Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:
1. Censorship and Control:
* Strict censorship: The government heavily censored literary works, particularly those considered critical of the regime. This led to self-censorship, with writers limiting their themes and perspectives to avoid repercussions.
* Propaganda and state-sponsored literature: The government promoted works that praised the New Society's achievements and policies. This included literature that glorified the Marcos family and highlighted "national unity" and "progress".
2. Literary Themes and Styles:
* Nationalism and Patriotism: Many writers, particularly poets, expressed their love for the country and their yearning for freedom. This often took the form of patriotic poems, celebrating the beauty of the Philippines and its cultural heritage.
* Social Realism: Despite the limitations, some writers continued to explore social issues, particularly those related to poverty, inequality, and the plight of the marginalized. They used allegorical and symbolic language to convey their message, often employing satire and irony.
* Experimentation with form and style: Some writers experimented with new literary forms and styles, often drawing inspiration from modern and postmodern literature. This included the use of free verse poetry, fragmented narratives, and surrealism.
3. Notable Writers:
* Nick Joaquin: One of the most prominent writers of the time, Joaquin continued to produce significant works, though his themes became more introspective and philosophical.
* Bienvenido Santos: Santos's short stories and novels, known for their psychological depth, often explored themes of exile, identity, and the human condition.
* Lualhati Bautista: A leading figure in social realism, Bautista's novels, such as "Dekada '70," tackled sensitive topics such as poverty, corruption, and the struggles of ordinary Filipinos during Martial Law.
* Cirilo Bautista: Known for his innovative and experimental poetry, Bautista experimented with language and form, exploring themes of nationalism, identity, and the complexities of Filipino culture.
* Edith Tiempo: A prolific writer and mentor, Tiempo's works explored themes of love, loss, and the human experience.
4. Challenges and Triumphs:
* Literary resistance: Despite the limitations, many writers found ways to express their dissent through subtle means. They used symbolism, allegory, and irony to critique the regime and its policies.
* Underground literature: Underground literary groups and publications emerged, providing a platform for writers to express themselves freely. These often circulated in mimeographed form or through informal networks.
* Legacy of the period: Despite the censorship, the period of the New Society saw a resurgence of Filipino nationalism and a renewed interest in exploring the complexities of Filipino identity and culture. The works produced during this time continue to be studied and analyzed, providing valuable insights into the social and political realities of the era.
Conclusion:
Philippine literature during the New Society period was a time of both struggle and resilience. Writers faced significant challenges, but they also found ways to express their creativity and dissent, shaping a rich and diverse literary landscape that continues to resonate today. The works produced during this era offer a valuable record of the era's political and social realities and continue to inspire and challenge readers.