This is the harsh truth about us: not only do Filipinos ignore books, literature - we do not understand how important the arts are - not just to those of us who work at it, but to the nation as a whole. F. Sionil Jose artbookfilipino share on social
Literature - Eastern and Western - abounds with stories, myths, legends about the search for youth, for eternal life. F. Sionil Jose aboundeasterneternal Change image and share on social
In the visual arts, particularly painting, I distrust all those abstractions, those artificial constructions. I have a very simple way of judging them: if I can do them, they are not art. F. Sionil Jose abstractionartartificial Change image and share on social
To fund major cultural efforts, we must not rely alone on government and foundation patronage; if the farmer can spend for beer, he can pay for good entertainment which he can understand, which he can identify with and which will fortify his spirit. F. Sionil Jose beerculturaleffort share on social
I tell young people who ask me about a future in writing not to go into it unless they get married to someone rich. F. Sionil Jose futuremarrypeople Change image and share on social
I find it always pleasurable talking with young people, particularly those aspiring to be writers, out of nostalgia, and because I've always felt that we oldies can learn so much from them and draw from them inspiration in our flagging and rickety years. F. Sionil Jose aspiredrawfelt share on social
We are shallow because we are 'mayabang,' ego driven, and do not have the humility to understand that we are only human, much too human to mistake knowledge for wisdom. F. Sionil Jose driveegohuman Change image and share on social
Language as a communication tool is the primary element from which literature is created. Even in pre-literate societies, it exists as songs, riddles, or epics that are chanted. F. Sionil Jose chantcommunicationcreate Change image and share on social
I was born in an Ilokano village called Cabugawan. Most of the houses in it were roofed with thatch, pan-aw, a species of wild grass. F. Sionil Jose bearcabugawancall Change image and share on social
Poetry, fiction as novels or short stories - these are autonomous as created by their authors. They should stand on their own, like pieces of furniture that should be judged as to their usefulness, elegance. F. Sionil Jose authorautonomouscreate share on social
