Dusk: A Novel (Modern Library Paperbacks)
by F. Sionil Jose

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Book Summary Information

• ISBN13: 9780375751448
• Condition: New
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Book Reviews of Dusk: A Novel (Modern Library Paperbacks)

Book Review: In Need of More Recognition
Summary: 5 Stars

What Jose achieves in writing Dusk is a window: a window into the detrimental psychological and social effects of a people under oppression and assimilation. Within the confines of the novel itself, the characters shift and become symbols expressing the themes of loss, anger, and confusion. There is a lot to be learned from the characters and their fate: People can be forced into submission physically, but the spirit is made of an unbreakable bond. A people under oppression eventually break free.

Jose reclaims his Filipino heritage by recognizing the history that is a cornerstone to most modern perceptions and attitudes. This book is a definite piece to read in re/constructing one's knowledge of the Philippines, its history, or simply as a tool to understanding the overall impact of oppression/colonization.

This book is a great resource, and moving piece of literature. If you are a fan of Jose's work, share these same ideas, or curious about these issues just as much as I am then feel free to e-mail me.

Summary of Dusk: A Novel (Modern Library Paperbacks)

This rich historical novel takes place at the end of the 19th century as the Filipinos, with the aid of the Americans, finally expelled the Spanish after three centuries of often brutal rule. Major themes are on display here--war and peace; rich versus poor; tyranny versus freedom--all passionately presented within the context of one man and his family. After being unjustly dismissed from the seminary by a corrupt priest and then suffering the death of his brother at the hands of Spanish authorities, Istak Samson is forced to flee from increasing oppression and lead his family on a journey for a new home. This harsh quest from the coast to the central plains eventually leads Samson to find love, peace, and relative prosperity, as well as provide a device for José to vividly describe the beauty and complexity of his homeland and to elaborate on the cultural effects of Spanish occupation. The joy Samson finds, like Philippine independence, is short-lived, as the Filipinos soon engage in a bloody conflict with the Americans, who have substituted Spanish imperialism with their own. Unable to reconcile his pacifist nature with his sense of duty to his country, Samson reluctantly joins the rebel forces in their battle to reassert their freedom. After setting the stage for tragedy, José does not follow an easy route to a happy ending but instead builds to a climax that is moving, if not unexpected. In telling his epic tale from the perspective of a common peasant, José lends a powerful voice to a people long trapped in the midst of historical upheaval.

Family Saga Books

• Subjects > Literature & Fiction > Genre Fiction > Family Saga
• Historical
• History & Criticism
• World Literature