Translating Culture and Fantasy in ‘Tabi Po: Bloodlust’
“Someday you will understand, Isagani. You can’t save someone who is not in danger. You can’t punish someone who has not sinned. So this is not me being in danger. This is not my punishment. This is just departure. I’m ready”
Before picking up Tabi Po: Bloodlust by Mervin Malonzo, I had a vague idea of what to expect. Filipino works often evoke a sense of familiarity, whether written in English or Filipino, which contrasts with the predominantly foreign literature I usually read. Despite my initial interest, I had put off reading this story for quite some time. At one point, I even downloaded Cignal TV to watch the 2017 adaptation, hoping it would ease me into the narrative. However, I never quite found the right moment to dive in.
Years later, I received a thoughtful gift—a newly bound English translation of the book, translated by @pryngols herself. From the moment I began, I was captivated.
The artwork immediately stood out. Throughout the book, I found myself repeatedly pausing to admire the full-page spreads and intricate details that filled each panel. The visuals alone were enough to draw me in, and they perfectly complemented the story’s darker themes.
The dialogue was another highlight, especially in scenes where words were sparse, and the characters’ expressions conveyed everything. I was particularly impressed by how the translator managed to convey the nuanced Filipino language without compromising the meaning. The translation retained the cultural richness of the original text, making the story accessible without losing its essence.
Finally reading this story brought me a deep sense of satisfaction. There’s a certain pride in seeing Filipino culture, mythology, and folklore vividly woven into a fantasy narrative. While the book contains explicit content—gore, sex, and more—it’s a remarkable portrayal of a world inspired by Filipino culture, brought to life through captivating art and dynamic storytelling. This is a work that will resonate with anyone interested in exploring rich, culturally rooted fantasy.