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Ricardo Arreola Lee, also known as “Ricky Lee,” is a distinguished Filipino screenwriter, journalist, novelist, and playwright whose career spans over forty years.

Renowned for his dedication to writing exclusively in Filipino, he has penned over 180 screenplays and written over 150 produced scripts, earning over 70 awards, including three-lifetime achievement honors. Lee has collaborated with acclaimed directors like Lino Brocka, Marilou Diaz-Abaya, and Ishmael Bernal, showcasing many of his films at prestigious international festivals such as Cannes, Toronto, and Berlin.

Despite not completing his AB English degree at Diliman's University of the Philippines, he later taught screenwriting at its College of Mass Communication. His early literary success began with award-winning short stories in the late 1960s, and he remains a committed mentor, offering free scriptwriting workshops since 1982.

Lee challenges his students to push their creative boundaries and immerse themselves in their characters' worlds, even acting out roles in real-life settings. In addition to his screenwriting, he has written short stories, plays, essays, novels, and teleplays.

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Philippine Political Landscape

Martial Law Legacy: The novel's backdrop reflects the lingering effects of Martial Law in the Philippines (1972-1981). This period under President Ferdinand Marcos was marked by human rights abuses, suppression of political dissent, and a culture of fear. The impact of this era is evident in the political undercurrents of Lee’s narrative, influencing the characters' perspectives and the socio-political environment they navigate.

People Power Revolution: The 1986 EDSA Revolution, which led to the ousting of Marcos, plays a crucial role in shaping the political consciousness of the characters. This peaceful uprising symbolizes Filipino resilience and the desire for democracy, which are central themes in the novel.

Social Issues

Ricky Lee's novel also addresses LGBTQ+ issues through its protagonist, reflecting the struggles and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community in a predominantly conservative society. This representation highlights the ongoing fight for equal rights and recognition. Additionally, themes of identity and migration are prevalent, mirroring the experiences of many Filipinos who seek better opportunities abroad, thus providing a critique of socio-economic conditions and their impact on personal and national identity.

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The protagonist in the story. A gay man who impersonates famous individuals who then discovers they are a manananggal. Moreover, Amapola has multiple personalities, including Zaldy and Isaac.

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A shy, complicated, and multifaceted character. He struggles to find his identity and position in the community, so he frequently feels that he does not fit in. He is also a closet queen, which means he is not openly homosexual and is concerned about being criticized by others. Furthermore, Zaldy is stuck in a loop of self-consciousness and still hesitant to be himself, which keeps him from interacting with people and leading a satisfying life.

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He is Amapola's dominating, strong personality. Isaac emerges when Amapola has to defend himself/herself or act decisively. Eventually, in the narrative, Isaac gets controlled by Kagumay, a fierce and bloodthirsty manananggal. This control leads Amapola to encounter an intense internal struggle.

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Amapola's younger sister, who was later adopted and was originally supposed to serve as the "itinakda" or chosen one, as stated by Emil. The absence of Mira represents that Amapola is responsible for carrying out the prophecy intended for Mira.

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A supportive friend of Amapola who is also a fan of Filipino actress Nora Aunor. Emil is Amapola's closest friend and ally, offering laughter and unwavering support. His constant dedication to Nora Aunor adds a brighter tone to the story.

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Amapola's adopted mother has always believed in and supported Amapola through his/her many personalities and life events. Despite the story's peculiar factors, she provides stability and faith.

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A woman who is attached to Isaac but unaware of his multiple identities. Gisele and Isaac's relationships depict the difficulties of handling unanticipated personality fluctuations and the need to maintain a steady connection.

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How does “Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata” contribute to the conversation about LGTBQ+ rights and visibility in the Philippines?

How does the novel address the theme of self-acceptance and societal acceptance? Which characters or events highlight these themes the most?

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An engaging novel by Ricky Lee, Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata is a political commentary blending humor, Philippine mythology, and socio-political critiques of the Philippines. Set in T. Morato of Quezon City, the novel reflects the country’s current state, drawing from historical events and contemporary issues. The story surrounds Amapola, the titular character, as a gay impersonator in a comedy bar called the High Notes. The story revolves around his complicated life: With Amapola in love with a coworker, Homer, a single-father while suffering from multiple personality disorders; Zaldy, an English-speaking closeted man and Isaac, a machoman, as his alters. Amapola’s life is made complicated once more as he finds himself turning into a manananggal, a Filipino mythological creature, every middle of the month.

We are left with Amapola discovering his role in the prophecy to ultimately save the Philippines from the burdens it currently faces.