“Pumapatak ang pula naming dugo. Nilalamig at nagugutom. At tadtad ng tama ng bala, Napakalaki ng aming pagdurusa. Ngunit napakalaki rin ng aming kalayaan!” - ANG AWIT NG MGA LOBO (1847) SANDOR PETOFI (1823 - 1849) salin ni ENRIQUE S. VILLASIS

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Every once in a while, a book comes along that reminds us of our shared humanity, surpassing language and distance. “Hindi Pasisiil ang Pagsibol” ("The Bloom Will Not Be Denied") by Ateneo de Naga University Press is one of those rare gems. This poetry collection celebrates the lyrical beauty of Hungarian poetry, lovingly translated into Filipino and other significant Philippine languages such as Bikolano, Rinconada, Bwînën, Tigaonon, and Minasbate thanks to the remarkable and dedication of its editors, Kristian Sendon Cordero and Enrique S. Villasis. 

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Last September, I had the privilege of meeting Kristian Sendon Cordero, the owner of Savage Mind during the Third Bikol Book Festival. It was an unforgettable experience where I also crossed paths with other literary figures, including Francisco Rico U. Raquitico, one of the brilliant poets featured in this stunning anthology.

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At the core of this collection are translated works by some of our country’s finest writers in local languages, inspired by the poetry of Sándor Petőfi, one of Hungary’s literary greats. Marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between Hungary and the Philippines in 2023, “Hindi Pasisiil ang Pagsibol” stands as a tribute to their shared cultural bond.

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If you're seeking a poetry collection that will inspire, move, and connect you to a different culture while still feeling deeply familiar, I can't recommend this book enough. It’s wonderful to see the recognition of different Philippine languages. Makes us proud Filipinos. Hindi Pasisiil ang Pagsibol is an emlékeztető of how deeply human we all are, no matter where we come from. Through the power of poetry, it reminds us that art, and the emotions it carries, knows no boundaries. Élj sokáig!