The period from 1986 to 1999 witnessed a significant resurgence in Philippine literature, marked by themes of social and political change, individual struggles, and the exploration of cultural identity. This was largely due to the aftermath of the People Power Revolution and the ensuing democratic transition. Here are some key features and trends of this period:
1. The Impact of the People Power Revolution:
* Themes of Democracy, Freedom, and Social Justice: Writers explored the societal and political changes brought by the revolution, reflecting on the triumphs and challenges of democracy. Examples include:
* Poetry: "Bayan Ko" by Jose Lacaba, "Gising" by Rio Alma.
* Fiction: "The Woman Who Had Two Navels" by Nick Joaquin (1985, but reflects the 1986 revolution).
* Drama: "The Forbidden Fruit" by Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero, "The Bacsil Family" by Jose Javier Reyes.
* Emphasis on Filipino Identity: The revolution fueled a strong sense of national identity and pride. Writers explored Filipino culture and traditions, often through a critical lens.
2. The Rise of New Voices:
* Emergence of Young Writers: A new generation of writers emerged, expressing their unique perspectives and experiences in response to the changing socio-political landscape.
* Focus on the Marginalized: Writers explored the stories and struggles of marginalized communities, giving voice to the underrepresented.
3. Experimentation in Form and Style:
* Influence of Modernism and Postmodernism: Literature began to experiment with new forms and styles, drawing inspiration from modern and postmodern literary trends. This was reflected in:
* Poetry: The use of free verse, fragmented narratives, and innovative language.
* Fiction: The exploration of non-linear narratives, unreliable narrators, and fragmented consciousness.
* Drama: The use of surrealism, absurdism, and innovative stagecraft.
4. Emerging Literary Movements:
* The Bagong Sibol: A group of young writers who emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, known for their activism and social commentary.
* The Kapatiran: A group of writers who promoted the use of Filipino language in literature.
5. Notable Literary Works (1986 - 1999):
* Poetry: "Mga Tula Para Sa Isang Bagong Siglo" (Poems for a New Century) by Rio Alma (1999).
* Fiction: "The Ilustrado" by Nick Joaquin (1985, but reflects the 1986 revolution).
* Drama: "The Wedding" by Floy Quintos (1999), "Noli Me Tangere: The Opera" by Ryan Cayabyab (1999).
6. Key Authors:
* National Artists: Bienvenido Lumbera, Nick Joaquin, F. Sionil Jose, Cirilo Bautista.
* Other notable authors: Rio Alma, Jose Lacaba, Lualhati Bautista, Merlinda Bobis, Ricky Lee, Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero, Floy Quintos, Jose Javier Reyes, Lino Brocka.
7. Literary Awards:
* Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature: The most prestigious literary awards in the Philippines, awarded annually.
* National Book Awards: Awarded by the National Book Development Board for outstanding literary works.
This period was a crucial time for Philippine literature, marking a transition from the oppressive Marcos regime to a more open and democratic era. The literature produced during this time reflected the complexities of this transition, with writers grappling with the challenges and possibilities of the new order while also exploring broader themes of identity, social justice, and cultural change.