Here's a summary of "Generations" by Ninotchka Rosca:
"Generations" is a novel that explores the lives of three generations of women in a Filipino family, set against the backdrop of the Marcos dictatorship and its aftermath.
The story focuses on:
* Amada: The matriarch, who embodies resilience and strength. She navigates the challenges of poverty and oppression, and seeks to protect her children from the harsh realities of life under the regime.
* Gilda: Amada's daughter, who struggles with her identity and the weight of her mother's expectations. She is a passionate artist who finds solace in creativity, but also faces the limitations imposed by societal norms and political turmoil.
* Grace: Gilda's daughter, who comes of age in the post-Marcos era. She grapples with the legacy of her family's past and the complexities of navigating a rapidly changing society.
The novel weaves together individual stories of love, loss, and struggle, while also examining the broader themes of:
* Family: The bonds and tensions within a multi-generational family, and the impact of their shared history.
* Gender: The experiences of women under a repressive regime, and the challenges they face in asserting their identities and agency.
* Politics: The influence of the Marcos dictatorship on everyday life, and the impact of its legacy on the succeeding generations.
"Generations" is a powerful and poignant narrative that explores the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. It also offers a critical commentary on Philippine history and the complexities of societal transformation.