Bibliolepsy

Author: Gina Apostol

Before even opening the book, I was sure this was going to be something enjoyable. It was set in a foreign country (Philippines), the author was originally from the Philippines and the novel was set in the tumultuous times of the People Power Revolution (EDSA revolution) that ultimately resulted in the end of Ferdinand Marcos’ 20 year dictatorship of the Philippines.

The book turned out to be a completely different beast. It was about Primi (narrator) and Anna, twins who are orphaned at an early age in rather mysterious circumstances. Primi is obsessed with reading books and infatuated with poets and writers. You may think that all of this makes for an interesting backdrop, and you are right. However, the book is put together like a collection of pithy sentences drawing parallels with other famous writers and their works. I recognize the Western authors, but can’t say whether the local Philippine authors that Primi picks up and drops off are real or not. Most importantly, the book was very disjointed with words and sentences that seemed eager to impress rather than convey any meaning.

I found the following quote is very appropriate for how I felt with this book. “It used to be I always tried to finish a book I started. I felt it was an obligation I owed the writer”. I can confidently state that I completed my obligation!