What makes 'the best of philippine speculative fiction' so special?

Philippine speculative fiction is a genre that explores imaginative and often unconventional ideas and scenarios set in the Philippines or with Filipino elements. It can include elements like science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

The best Philippine short stories are special because they often reflect the unique Filipino culture. They incorporate local traditions, superstitions, and family values. For example, stories might feature fiestas, the strong bond within extended families, or the respect for elders.

It showcases different perspectives. Filipino writers might approach themes like time travel, alien encounters, etc. in ways that are distinct from Western or other Asian writers. For example, they could use local values and family structures to shape how characters react to speculative situations. This diversity enriches the global speculative fiction scene as a whole.

Some of the great works might include those that blend Filipino culture with elements of the speculative, like stories that incorporate local myths into science - fiction or fantasy settings.

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.

Speculative science fiction books often break boundaries. They can introduce new ideas about technology, society, and human nature. Take 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley. It shows a future where humans are genetically engineered and conditioned for their place in society. This makes us question our values and what it means to be human. Also, books like 'Foundation' by Isaac Asimov play with concepts of large - scale civilization and its development over time.

The history of Philippine speculative fiction can be divided into several main periods. Early on, it was influenced by local folklore and superstitions. Then, during the colonial era, Western literary influences started to blend in. In more recent times, there has been a growth in the exploration of unique Filipino cultural and social concepts within speculative fiction.

I'm not sure of specific titles off - hand, but often works that explore Filipino folklore in a speculative way are great. Maybe there are stories about aswang or tikbalang in a modern, science - fictional or magical realist context.

One common theme is the intersection of the traditional and the modern. This can be seen when Filipino folklore elements are merged with contemporary settings.

The 2017 best science fiction is special because it pushed boundaries. For example, works like 'The Collapsing Empire' introduced new ideas about how galactic civilizations could function and fail. It made readers think about large - scale political and social structures in a science - fiction context.