Many of these stories also focus on the social and political issues of the Philippines. Since the country has a long history of colonial rule and struggles for independence, stories often deal with themes like oppression, resistance, and the search for national identity. For instance, stories might show how the common people fought against the unjust rule of the colonizers.
Philippine short stories often feature strong family and community ties. Characters are deeply influenced by their family values and the community they belong to. For example, in many stories, the decisions a character makes are related to how it will affect their family's honor or standing in the community.
Philippine short stories often have a strong sense of place. They are deeply rooted in the Philippine landscape, culture, and traditions. For example, stories might mention local festivals, superstitions, or traditional family structures. Another characteristic is the exploration of complex human relationships. Love, family bonds, and social hierarchies are common themes. Also, many Philippine short stories use the English language in a unique way, influenced by the local languages and dialects, creating a distinct voice.
They also tend to reflect the country's complex history. Stories may touch on the Spanish colonial era, the American occupation, and the fight for independence. This historical backdrop shapes the characters and their struggles. Moreover, the use of the Filipino language, either in its pure form or in a hybrid with English, gives Philippine fiction a unique flavor. It allows for a more nuanced expression of local thoughts and feelings. The family unit is a central theme in many Philippine fictions as well. Family relationships, loyalty, and conflicts are often explored in great detail.
They tend to have vivid descriptions of the Philippine landscape and local settings. This helps to create a sense of place. Also, many of these short stories deal with the impact of historical events such as colonialism on the Filipino people. The characters in these stories often struggle with issues of identity, trying to find a balance between their native roots and the influence of Western culture.
They also tend to have a focus on the Filipino spirit of resilience. Despite the hardships of war, colonization, and natural disasters, the characters in these stories usually show a determination to survive and thrive. This is seen in stories where protagonists fight for their rights, preserve their cultural heritage, and strive for a better future for their families and the nation as a whole.
The use of local languages and dialects also stands out. While some works are in English or Spanish for wider dissemination, many Philippine fictions are written in local languages like Tagalog. This helps to preserve and promote the unique cultural identity of the Philippines through literature.
Traditional Philippine literature is rich in cultural heritage and usually reflects the values and beliefs of the Filipino people. Erotic stories are not in line with the general characteristics of traditional literature. For example, the epics like 'Biag ni Lam - ang' are about heroic deeds and cultural traditions, not erotic themes.
Most of these stories have a strong connection to the Filipino values. Family values, respect for the elders, and hard work are often emphasized. The characters in the stories can be ordinary people, magical beings like diwatas, or animals. These characters' actions and decisions reflect the values that Filipino parents want to pass on to their children at bedtime.
Philippine English stories often blend local culture and traditions. For example, they might include local superstitions, festivals, and family values. They also use Philippine English, which has its own unique vocabulary and grammar influenced by the local languages.
One main characteristic is the strong influence of Filipino culture. It often incorporates local myths, legends, and superstitions. For example, stories might feature aswang or tikbalang. Another characteristic is the exploration of social issues in a speculative context. It can show how problems like poverty, corruption, or environmental degradation could be different in a fictional, altered Philippines. Also, there is a sense of place, with the unique geographical and cultural aspects of the Philippines being integral to the stories.