The sublime to the ribald in second delivery of ‘Fast Food Fiction’
MANILA, Philippines - It may be called Fast Food Fiction Delivery, but the latest collection of short-short stories launched by Anvil Publishing and edited by Noelle de Jesus and Mookie Katigbak-Lacuesta is not about fast food but food for the soul, as authors and fans gathered at Powerbooks, Greenbelt 4, for the event last Saturday.
The event was attended by literary awardees, poets and writers who were all asked to contribute a story not stretching much beyond 500 words. Some writers took the challenge and landed close to 500; some even went even more “sudden,” posting stories of 150 words and less. As co-editor de Jesus said in her opening remarks, it’s a project that has grown more and more relevant as “our attention spans get shorter and shorter.”
Fast Food Fiction Delivery is a sequel to the first edition from 2002, and fans and family members got to hear contributors recite their short literary efforts live onstage — from the sublime to some of the more ribald selections. It’s fiction that’s fast, but also surprisingly nutritional.
Attending the launch were Philippine STAR columnists Scott Garceau, Therese Jamora-Garceau, Danton Remoto and Carlomar Arcangel Daoana.
Attendees heard story readings ranging from Nikki Alfar’s hot and saucy “Revelation” to Sarge Lacuesta’s nostalgic reminiscence, “Angela.” UP Professor Gemino Abad offered up the poetic “Bettina,” which opens the book.
Indeed, the book offers a wide menu of literary styles — from short appetizers and high-calorie experimental pieces to light, amusing trifles and side dishes. For today’s readers who need a quick literary “snack” while waiting in line or just want to sneak in a few moments of poetic reflection, Fast Food Fiction Delivery is made for the times.
* * *
Fast Food Fiction Delivery is available at Powerbooks and National Book Store.
