This collection by Edilberto K. Tiempo weaves a thematic thread of snakes – both literal and symbolic – through a series of short stories set in the central Philippine towns of Dumaguete, Siquijor, and Maasin.

“In Tiempo’s collection of stories one can feel the warmth of sunshine, smell the sea, hear the bird song, and the night sounds, enjoy the panorama of the landscape. The brilliant freshness of the local scene (and its superstitions!) pervades the stories and gives color to the lives of the characters, most of whom seem to have ties, in one way or another, not only with the land, but with the West, with which they seem to endure a troubled relationship. This renders Tiempo’s native land mysterious (“Tierra Encantada”), even sinister, or, at the very least, a presence which one is invited to ponder as characters leave it or return to it.” – Barbara C. Solara, Michigan State University

Edilberto K. Tiempo (1913-1996) was a fiction writer and literary critic. Edilberto, alongside his wife, National Artist for Literature Edith L. Tiempo, founded the Silliman National Writers Workshop in the Philippines.

Publisher:
Edilberto K. Tiempo and New Day Publishers, Philippines

Publication Date:
1992

Format:
Softcover / 8.69 x 5.69 inches / 152 pages / BW

Language:
English, Filipino

ISBN: 971-10-0490-9

Aged with browned pages, but copy remains in good condition.