Bullets and Roses: The Poetry of Amado V. Hernandez: A Bilingual Edition

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This is the definitive book on Amado V. Hernandez, the poet. Bautista's translation of important poems from Isang Dipang Langit captures the richness and complexity of Hernandez's texts and conveys to the sensitive reader much of the poetic qualities that distinguish Hernandez from other Tagalog bards. Called variously as "leading poet and writer" , "life and hope of Tagalog poetry" , and "great Tagalog poet" , Hernandez appeals to a large segment of society with his incisive and intense portrayal of human passion, aspiration, and nobility.

Bautista's critical essay is a sharp and enlightening discourse on the qualities of Hernandez's poetry. Using pieces of historical and cultural evidence, Bautista investigates the foundation and ramifications of Hernandez's art, the factors that have shaped his poetics, and the direction that it finally took. There is no doubt that Hernandez is a master poet. Because he successfully transmogrified the beauty and graces of proletarian and romantic perspectives, he transcended their shortcomings and inadequacies, emerging with "a socially realistic romanticism." This is the heart of his continuing relevance and the source of his permanence as an artist. His poetry did not wilt by the wayside when the social causes he was fighting for became moot and academic, but remains vibrant and enjoyable to this day.