The period between 1946 and 1985 in Philippine Literature witnessed a significant shift, marked by both the rebuilding efforts after World War II and the burgeoning sociopolitical landscape. This period can be categorized as follows:
1. Post-War Reconstruction and the Rise of Modernism (1946-1960s):
* Rebuilding the literary scene: The immediate post-war years focused on rebuilding the literary scene, publishing houses, and reviving interest in creative writing.
* Influence of American Literature: American influence remained strong, with writers like Nick Joaquin and Carlos Bulosan exploring themes of identity, alienation, and the impact of Westernization.
* Rise of Modernism: The 1950s and 1960s saw the emergence of modernist literature, characterized by experimental techniques, fragmented narratives, and a focus on psychological realism.
* Notable Writers:
* Nick Joaquin: Known for his lyrical prose and exploration of Filipino mythology and history, he is considered one of the pillars of Philippine Modernism.
* Carlos Bulosan: A Filipino-American writer who gained prominence for his social realist works that depicted the struggles of Filipino immigrants in America.
* Edith Tiempo: A prominent fiction writer and poet known for her psychological depth and exploration of human relationships.
* Bienvenido Santos: A master of short stories, he often explored themes of displacement, alienation, and the search for identity.
2. The Dawn of Social Realism and Political Engagement (1960s-1970s):
* Social and Political Upheaval: The rise of social and political consciousness in the 1960s and 1970s influenced the direction of literature.
* Social Realism: Writers began using their art to address issues of poverty, social injustice, and the growing inequality in Philippine society.
* Political Activism: Many writers became actively involved in social and political movements, lending their voices to the call for reform.
* Notable Writers:
* Lualhati Bautista: A prolific novelist who wrote extensively about the struggles of women and the marginalized in Philippine society.
* Jose Lacaba: A poet, playwright, and journalist known for his politically charged work and his contributions to the underground press during Martial Law.
* Bienvenido Lumbera: An esteemed literary critic and scholar who played a pivotal role in shaping the understanding of Philippine literature.
3. Under Martial Law: Resistance and Subversion (1972-1985):
* Martial Law and Censorship: The declaration of Martial Law in 1972 brought about a period of intense repression and censorship, stifling creative expression.
* Underground Literature: Writers and artists went underground to continue their work, often using coded language and symbolism to critique the Marcos regime.
* Themes of Resistance: Literature became a tool for resistance, showcasing the resilience and defiance of the Filipino people in the face of oppression.
* Notable Writers:
* G.R. Santos: A prolific poet known for his socially conscious work and his ability to convey the struggles of the Filipino people under Martial Law.
* Edgardo Reyes: A novelist known for his powerful narratives depicting the lives of ordinary Filipinos during Martial Law.
* Cecilia Manguerra Brainard: A novelist who wrote about the Filipino diaspora and explored themes of identity and belonging.
4. Key Movements and Styles:
* Modernism: Continued to influence writers with its focus on form, experimentation, and the exploration of the human psyche.
* Social Realism: Dominated the literary landscape, with writers using their craft to expose social injustices and advocate for change.
* Post-Modernism: Emerged as a reaction to Modernism, emphasizing self-awareness, irony, and the deconstruction of established literary conventions.
Overall, Philippine literature during the Republic period (1946-1985) was characterized by a remarkable resilience, adapting to the changing social and political landscape. From the rebuilding efforts after World War II to the struggles against Martial Law, writers used their craft as a powerful tool for expression, social commentary, and political engagement.
This period laid the foundation for the vibrant and diverse literary scene that exists in the Philippines today.