Style Weekend forum: What’s your favorite Filipino book?

Here are the top picks of some book influencers

BY JESSICA PAG-IWAYAN

  

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The month of August is a significant period where we celebrate the beauty and history of our language in a celebration called Buwan ng Wika. With the theme  “Filipino: Wikang Magpalaya,” this year’s celebration is highlighting the role of our language in promoting peace and unity. 

To mark this celebration, Style Weekend asked some book influencers what their favorite Filipino books are. 

‘Cave and Shadows’ by Nick Joaquin

On the surface, it’s about a man who returns to Manila to solve the mysterious death of his stepdaughter. It’s a crime thriller and mystery, but Joaquin goes deeper and explores themes like identity, history, religion, and colonialism.

This is a meaningful recommendation as this year marks Joaquin’s 20th death anniversary. There is a renewed interest in the National Artist’s body of work, including the reprinting of his books, the launching of the Nick Joaquin Foundation, and the theatrical staging of Kisapmata, the Mike de Leon film adapted from the author’s “The House on Zapote Street.”—Koji Arsua, writer and book content creator.  

‘Of Flowers That Bloomed in Fire & at Night’ by Jerico Silvers

In the midst of the pandemic, this book illuminated my darkest days and helped me find solace and understanding during challenging times. This book has been an unwavering friend, aiding me as I journey through the toughest stages of my life.

This book is truly special and I highly recommend it for anyone in need of comfort. It’s one of the most beautiful books I’ve come across, blending self-help and poetry in a way that feels like a warm embrace.—Jucelle Garcia, BookTok influencer.

‘Desaparesidos’ by Lualhati Bautista 

This book delivered everything I hoped for and more—a heart-wrenching story set during a defining moment in Philippine history, written with boldness and courage, yet strikingly relevant to today’s society. It’s graphic, raw, honest, and deeply moving all at once. I’d go so far as to call it Bautista’s best book of all time.—Kat Leonorio, professional teacher and co-founder of #AkdangPinoy2024. 

‘Si’ by Bob Ong

Sinimulan ni Bob Ong ang librong ito sa dulo at tinapos sa pinakasimula. Isasama ka ng librong ito sa buhay ng karakter na busog sa pag-ibig at mga pagsubok sa buhay. Manipis lang ang libro, pero pakikiligin, patatawanin, at paiiyakin ka. Ipapakita rin ng kwento ang kahalagahan ng pamilya, pagpapatawad, at pagkakaibigan. Ang ganda ng pagkakasulat– parang hinihele ka ng mga salita. Bubuuin ang puso mo para lang durugin ng huling pahina (Bob Ong started the story at the end and ended it at the beginning. This book will take you on a journey about the character’s life—full of love and challenges. It’s a short read but will make you feel the love, laugh, and cry. It shows the importance of family, forgiveness, and friendship. It was beautifully written. It’s like a lullaby; it will make your heart complete, only to shatter it in the end).—Gerald, The Bookworm, Book content creator.

‘Lalani of the Distant Sea’ by Erin Entrada Kelly

Released in 2019, this middle-grade fantasy novel follows the story of a young girl, Lalani Sarita, from Sanlagita. When an overlong drought came upon Sanlagita, Lalani decided to go beyond the island and find both the solution and the truth.

Powerful and imaginative, Lalani is a highly-recommended read for readers of all ages. What made it more accessible to Filipino audiences are the references scattered all throughout the book, coded and reimagined from different Filipino mythology and folklore. We have a nunso (nuno sa punso), fei (diwata), and mindorens to name a few. It also delivered a fresh perspective about childhood thinking while also highlighting classic Filipino traits such as generosity and bravery even in the most challenging times.

Lastly, one of the many takeaways from ‘Lalani’ that spoke to me is about taking risks even when no one believes in you and challenging the system.— Saimon or Sai, petroleum engineer and co-founder of #AkdangPinoy2024. 

Cayetano: Faith-driven vision key to personal and national transformation

 

PRESS RELEASE

“Ang iyong sense of purpose ay magandang bagay sa iyong vision.”

This was the message of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano in his inspirational speech at the 42nd anniversary celebration of Mandaport Apostolic Pentecostals (MAP) on August 18, 2024 in the City of Taguig.

Drawing inspiration from the recent triumph of Paris 2024 Olympics gold medalist Carlos Yulo and other Filipino athletes, Cayetano emphasized that their clear vision propelled them to success and continues to drive them forward.

“Dahil klaro sa kanila na gusto nilang maging champion athlete, may vision sila. Ngayon, nagkakaroon sila ng purpose kapag may laban [tulad ng Olympics],” he said.

The senator stressed that a clear vision, purpose, and identity are crucial to achieving success as these elements cultivate the discipline needed to fulfill one's goals.

“Kapag klaro po ang iyong vision at mayroong plano, purpose, at identity, babantayan ka Niya. Kung nandiyan ang tatlong ‘yan, magkakaroon ng disiplina patungo sa iyong vision,” he said.

Cayetano noted that some people struggle to find their vision because they let the negative influences of the world cloud their judgment and obscure their path.

 “Marami tayong mga kapatid na hindi umaabot sa vision kasi nauunahan ng kasinungalingan na ikaw ay hindi special. ‘Pag ikaw ay may identity sa Panginoon, alam mong mahalaga ka sa Panginoon,” he said.

 He also emphasized that a strong foundation – rooted in the Word of God – significantly impacts not only an individual’s vision but also the country's vision toward true transformation.

 “Marami tayong darating na magagaling na politiko at sistema galing sa ibang bansa, pero kung wala ang salita ng Diyos, walang transformation,” he said.

“Ang mas mahalaga po nating task ay ayusin ang pundasyon sa ating sariling pamilya, sa sariling community, sa sariling church,” he added.

In closing his remarks, Cayetano urged the members of MAP to continue inspiring the public, much like Filipino athletes do, saying that preaching becomes more effective when it also inspires.

“Success inspires; your church will inspire. Pero ano ang mag-i-inspire sa’yo? Is it the gold medal, or is it the Word of God? Mas maganda kung both,” he said.

“Sa lahat ng ating ginagawa, dapat ginagawa natin para sa Panginoon,” he concluded. ###

Mpox: What is it and how concerned should you be?

BY MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT

Aug 17, 2024 08:46 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Mpox, formerly called "monkeypox," is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus that has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).

• In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) has reported that no new mpox cases have been detected since December 2023.

• While there are currently no available treatments or vaccines for mpox, the DOH said infected patients may recover without medical intervention.

• The DOH has assured the public that its surveillance systems remain on alert following the recent declaration of mpox as a global health emergency.

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Monkeypox, now known as mpox, has been declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the second time.

Image from Unsplash

The viral disease, which has been spreading in African countries, was first declared a PHEIC in 2022.

Two years later, on Aug. 15, the WHO reissued its highest alert level due to a new mpox variant, which has increased the risk of the virus spreading to other continents.

The WHO’s declaration came a day after the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced mpox as a public health emergency.

Even before the WHO’s declaration, the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines said it was on “alert” as it continued to monitor global developments related to mpox.

READ: 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/8/13/doh-on-alert-following-mpox-emergency-declaration-in-africa 

On Aug. 14, DOH Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo told reporters that the agency’s “surveillance systems remain on alert” following the recent declaration. “We will provide updates as they come,” he added.

What is mpox?

Mpox, originally named “monkeypox,” is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus.

Similar to smallpox but generally less severe, mpox was first identified in monkeys in 1958. The first reported human case was recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970.

In 2022, to minimize stigma and association with monkeys, as the disease can also infect rodents and humans, the WHO has changed the name from "monkeypox" to "mpox." 

The viral disease spreads through direct contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects. 

Mpox can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, intense headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.

Those infected develop a characteristic rash that often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. This rash typically appears 1 to 3 days after the onset of fever and progresses through different stages before forming a scab, which eventually falls off.

Mpox in the Philippines

In the Philippines, the DOH reported that while there have been detected cases in the past, there have been no recorded deaths due to mpox.

READ: 

https://mb.com.ph/2024/6/9/doh-reports-no-mpox-deaths-in-the-philippines

“The mpox case count in the Philippines remains at nine,” Domingo said.

Four mpox cases were detected in 2022. Last year, five cases were detected: one in May, one in July, and three in December.

“No new mpox cases have been detected in the Philippines since December 2023,” Domingo said.

In 2022, the DOH issued interim technical guidelines for mpox surveillance, screening, management, and infection control.

A public health advisory issued by the DOH in 2022 explains how mpox differs from other viral diseases. 

It also issued a public health advisory containing important information about the viral disease.

Should we be worried?

In a televised interview on Aug. 15, Domingo acknowledged the urgency of the WHO’s declaration of mpox as a health emergency but also emphasized the importance of remaining alert.

“Palagi namin sinasabi sa public health, maging alerto (We always say in public health, be alert),” Domingo said. “Tamang praning lang, wag masyado kasi para alam din natin kung ano ang gagawin natin para di tayo mahawaan o tayo ay makapag-ingat (It's okay to be cautious, but not overly so because this helps us know what actions to take to avoid infection or to be cautious),” Domingo said.

While mpox can be serious, especially for certain vulnerable groups, Domingo noted that there is no need to panic.

Mpox transmission

Domingo explained mpox spreads through close physical contact—especially skin-to-skin contact.

The virus spreads primarily through close contact with an infected person, including direct contact with their rash, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets.

Mpox can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects like bedding.
The incubation period, Domingo explained, varies from one to 21 days, with symptoms typically beginning as fever and rashes that may persist for up to four weeks.

The virus becomes contagious two days before the onset of symptoms, specifically rashes.

This 2022 public health advisory issued by the DOH explains how mpox is transmitted.

Unless individuals have direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin lesions of infected animals or humans, have prolonged face-to-face contact with an infected person, or have touched contaminated objects, such as bedding, clothing, or towels used by an infected person, the chances of transmission remain low.

Is there a treatment for mpox?

There is no specific treatment for mpox, Domingo said. However, the viral disease is generally self-limiting and can resolve without treatment.

“Walang gamot mismo sa monkeypox pero ang magandang balita, kusa itong gumagaling (There is no specific medication for monkeypox, but the good news is that it tends to resolve on its own),” he explained.

While the lack of available treatment for mpox causes concern for many, Domingo noted that infected patients may recover without medical treatment.

For infected individuals, supportive care --- such as managing symptoms and complications --- is crucial for recovery.

Similarly, Domingo said there is no vaccine available for mpox.

However, in some cases, antiviral drugs and vaccines used for smallpox may be effective against mpox.

In some countries like the United States, Domingo said the smallpox vaccine has been administered to high-risk populations.

“Dito sa Pilipinas, hindi natin siya ibinibigay kasi mababa o wala nga tayong nakikitang load lately at kaya naman ng ating surveillance systems (Here in the Philippines, we do not administer it because the risk is currently low or nonexistent, and our surveillance systems are adequate to manage it),” he said.

Be alert

While mpox is a disease that warrants attention and appropriate preventive measures, the DOH noted that there is no need for undue fear.

“Nakabantay ang DOH at ang buong gobyerno natin sa nangyayari ngayon sa international arena, wag po tayong mag-alala (The DOH and our entire government are monitoring the situation internationally, so please don’t worry),” Domingo said.

Recognizing that public health measures and education are key to controlling the spread of mpox, Domingo said that the DOH would continue to provide accurate information related to the disease.

“Tamang impormasyon ang kailangan para alam ng ating populasyon kung ano ang gagawin (Accurate information is needed so our population knows what actions to take),” he added.

Preventive measures

Since mpox is a viral disease, the DOH emphasized that it is prevented mainly through hygiene.

Avoiding contact or refraining from close physical contact with individuals who show symptoms of mpox, and practicing hand hygiene through regular washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, are among the recommended preventive measures.

While masking remains voluntary, Domingo said wearing masks, especially while traveling, would reduce the possible transmission through respiratory droplets.

Domingo also mentioned that the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) is alert regarding the mpox situation.

“Ang ating BOQ, walang dagdag na proseso pero ang sinasabi naming alert sila (The BOQ has not added new processes, but they are on alert),” Domingo said.

Domingo mentioned that, as part of its measures against mpox, the BOQ might start asking additional questions or conducting interviews with travelers arriving from or heading to Africa.

Remittances hit 2024 high of $2.88B in June

BY IAN NICOLAS P. CIGARAL

Money sent home by Filipinos abroad reached its highest level so far this year in June, although a potential recession in the United States is threatening to clip the growth of remittances.

Cash remittances coursed through banks amounted to $2.88 billion in June, up by 2.5 percent year-on-year, data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

Figures showed this was the highest inflow so far this year.

Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said remittances were typically high in June as Filipinos abroad hike their money transfers to pay for school-related fees ahead of the resumption of classes. Such a seasonal surge, he explained, may last until August.

Economic slowdown

But Ricafort said the possibility of a recession in the United States, major host country of Filipino expats, could pose a serious risk to remittances as data showed high interest rates stateside might be starting to weaken the American job market.

“Risk of economic slowdown or even recession in the United States, as well as in other countries that host large number of OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) … would still be a drag for remittances especially if there would be job losses,” he said.

The June spike in inflows brought the six-month remittances to $16.25 billion, 2.9 percent bigger than a year ago. According to the BSP, cash remittances from the United States, Saudi Arabia and Singapore contributed mainly to the increase in the first half of the year.

Data showed remittances have been growing at around 3 percent since late 2022, with the BSP projecting the average growth of these inflows to settle at that level again in 2024. That trend made some analysts believe that the growth of such transfers might be plateauing already even despite the weakness of the local currency in the past months.

Money sent home by Filipinos overseas is a major source of purchasing power in the Philippines, where consumption typically accounts for nearly 70 percent of gross domestic product. That said, a plateauing remittance growth may translate to sub-par support to consumer spending.

But Ricafort said remittances remain a “bright spot” for the economy, as they keep many Filipino families afloat amid stubbornly high inflation.

“Nevertheless, the continued and consistent growth in remittances could be attributed to higher inflation locally that required the sending of more remittances back to the country,” he said.

Russian ballet stars in Manila for Ballet Manila's 'Giselle'

Russian ballet stars call Philippines ‘Paradise on Earth;’ decline to comment on ongoing war

Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — “Paradise on Earth” – this is how Russian couple Renata Shakirova and Aleksei Timofeyev described the Philippines, coming here for the first time as guest performers for local ballet company Ballet Manila’s 2024 staging of the classic “Giselle.”

At a press conference early this week for “Giselle,” the Russian guests raved over the Philippines.

According to the couple, they have always heard about the country from a Filipino ballet dancer friend, and now that they have come to the country for the first time, they agree with their friend that the country is just as their friend described, a “paradise on Earth.”

“Giselle,” "a tragedy... sad but beautiful story" of a peasant girl who fell in love with a nobleman, is the third offering for Ballet Manila's 26th Performance Season, said Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Philippine prima ballerina, the first foreign soloist to join the Kirov Ballet and Ballet Manila’s Artistic Director.

The Mariinsky Ballet artists are in town to headline Ballet Manila’s “Giselle” in Aliw Theater on August 31 at 8 p.m. and on September 1 at 5 p.m.

“’Giselle’ has been a staple in Ballet Manila, but now, what makes this year different from previous seasons, aside from the fact that we have two guest artists, is the fact that it is onstage with the new Aliw Theater, with our LED (light-emitting diode) projections, with all those effects, may upgrading na kahit papaano…” Macuja-Elizalde explained.

Lisa said she learned about the couple through a recommendation from her ballet teacher in Russia. She invited the pair so that her company’s relatively new dancers (she lost many dancers during the pandemic) would be able to experience dancing with guest artists, who are also new to the country.

“Of course, it is so hard to say ‘no’ to Lisa because she is full of energy and life…” Alexei enthused.

“What is very special with Ballet Manila’s ‘Giselle’ is that I’m dancing it for the first time with my husband,” shared Renata, “and that kind of artistry and performance with somebody you are very close to will just make the performance very special. And I’m very excited to know the artists of Ballet Manila."

“It didn’t really need a lot of convincing or a lot of time to think about it. When the possibility came to perform in Manila, Philippines, there was really no question about it. We would accept because we were very excited to be able to perform in Manila. And we heard so much about the country. And so now, coming to the Philippines is just very exciting and we are looking forward to it.”

Their first performance as a couple was “Don Quixote,” and since then, they have performed in other shows together such as “Anyuta.” 

The pair admitted that sometimes, it is also hard to work together as husband-and-wife, as they sometimes fight during rehearsals. But overall, it is now a “fun and pleasurable” experience for them, “especially in the acting and artistic exchange as a couple.”

“'Giselle’ is one of my favorite ballets,” said Aleksei. “And dancing ‘Giselle’ with my wife Renata, it is even more interesting for me to find out what’s going to happen… We are getting a good kind of jitters because we are performing in front of an audience we don’t know.”

“We don’t know the Philippine audience at all,” confessed Aleksei. “It is going to be the first time for the both of us. So we don’t really know what to expect from the Philippine audience, but what we want to do is to invite them to come and see our performance of ‘Giselle’.”

When Philstar.com asked how as artists were they affected by the war between Russia and Ukraine, Macuja-Elizalde said, “Sorry, I promised no politics!” — Video by Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo; video editing by Martin Ramos

Karylle joins cast of reality show 'Manila Matriarchs'

 

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Singer-actress Karylle Tatlonghari-Yuzon is joining the cast of unscripted reality show "Manila Matriarchs."

The eight-part series follows four Filipino women "navigating motherhood, sisterhood, careers, love, social standing, and the pursuit of true happiness," shooting in Manila and San Francisco.

Karylle will be accompanied by entrepreneurs Joanna Preysler-Francisco and Trisha Bantigue-Tsao and writer-speaker Myrza Sison.

Filipino-American Cece Asuncion of Girl, Bye Productions is the series producer while Miguel Santos, Eddie Tran, and Joy Tarce are executive producers as are JP Mallo and Justyn Reyes of J Creative Entertainment.

The show is yet to sign to a network or streaming service but it has the backing of the Film Development Council of the Philippines and Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos.

Philippines’ abundance of national holidays: A blessing or a burden?

 

BY CHINO S. LEYCO

Aug 17, 2024 08:09 AM

  

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The Philippines, celebrated for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, has a distinctive approach to national holidays, boasting over 20 official holidays each year. This places the country among the nations with the highest number of public holidays worldwide.

While these holidays offer valuable time off for employees and stimulate tourism, they also present notable challenges to the economy.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) have expressed concerns about the sheer number of holidays, suggesting that Congress consider reducing the list to promote economic growth. 

Annually, there are about 22 regular holidays and around five special holidays, not counting local observances and work cancellations due to natural disasters.

Senate President Francis Escudero has joined the conversation, indicating openness to the idea of cutting back on national holidays.

Conversely, labor groups oppose any reduction, advocating for lawmakers to focus on understanding the challenges workers face.

Philippines vs. US and ASEAN countries 

When comparing national holidays, the Philippines stands out in the ASEAN region or even with the United States.

In the US, there are 11 federal holidays recognized nationwide. While these holidays are celebrated across the country, individual states often observe additional holidays that reflect their unique histories and cultures.

In the ASEAN region, the Philippines boasts a greater number of holidays compared to its peers. Vietnam, for instance, celebrates six national holidays. Among these, Tet Nguyen Dan, or Lunar New Year, holds particular significance, symbolizing renewal and family reunions.

Meanwhile, Malaysia celebrates eight national holidays that reflect its vibrant multicultural society. Key observances include Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marking the end of Ramadan, and Hari Raya Haji, which aligns with the Islamic pilgrimage. Additionally, each state in Malaysia may have its own holidays.

Indonesia, the largest archipelago in the world, observes 16 national holidays. The calendar begins with New Year’s Day, followed by Chinese New Year, which varies each year. Galungan, a Hindu celebration, holds special importance in the Balinese calendar, while Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and Independence Day on Aug. 17 are widely celebrated events.

Singapore, known for its multicultural society, has 11 national holidays that reflect its diverse ethnic groups. Celebrations commence with New Year’s Day on Jan. 1, followed by Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, and Deepavali. National Day on Aug. 9 celebrates Singapore’s independence.

Celebrating culture and community

National holidays in the Philippines are deeply intertwined with the nation’s history and culture, encompassing a range of celebrations from religious observances to national commemorations. For many Filipinos, these holidays are not merely days off; they represent opportunities to reconnect with family, honor traditions, and engage in local festivities. The prospect of holiday pay further enhances the anticipation surrounding these days, allowing employees to earn extra income.

The tourism sector also reaps the rewards of this holiday-rich environment. During peak holiday seasons, domestic travel surges as families flock to their hometowns or popular destinations. This influx of travelers significantly boosts local economies, supporting businesses from hospitality to retail. Festivals and events tied to specific holidays further attract tourists, creating vibrant local economies that thrive on the celebration of culture.

Economic Challenges

Despite the benefits, the extensive holiday calendar raises critical economic concerns. For businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, the impact of numerous non-working days can be profound. 

The additional costs associated with holiday pay, combined with reduced productivity, can strain financial resources. Employers often face challenges in maintaining workflow, and prolonged periods without regular operations can lead to decreased output and profitability.

Moreover, industries that rely on consistent performance, such as manufacturing and services, can find the disruption caused by holidays detrimental. Frequent breaks may hinder project timelines and complicate planning, leading to inefficiencies that can ripple through the economy.

Striking a Balance

To address these challenges, a balanced approach is essential. Policymakers could consider re-evaluating the holiday schedule, potentially consolidating certain holidays or introducing more flexible arrangements. Floating holidays, for example, would allow employees to choose their days off, ensuring that businesses can maintain operations while still respecting cultural traditions.

In addition, fostering a culture of productivity during holiday seasons is crucial. Businesses can implement strategies that encourage effective time management and planning, ensuring that work continues smoothly even amid celebrations. Training programs focused on operational efficiency during holidays could also empower employees to maximize productivity without sacrificing cultural observance.

Looking to the Future

As the Philippines navigates the complexities of its holiday calendar, it becomes increasingly important to engage in dialogue among stakeholders—employees, businesses, and government officials. By aligning the celebration of cultural heritage with economic sustainability, the nation can create a framework that honors its traditions while supporting growth.

The Philippines’ numerous national holidays are a testament to its rich cultural tapestry. However, the economic implications cannot be ignored.

By finding a harmonious balance between celebration and productivity, the Philippines can ensure that its holidays remain a source of joy and economic vitality for generations to come.

Who killed the socialite?

The socialite was the personification of polite society, the embodiment of a collective aspiration to graceful living, though it has become a kind of nostalgia, no longer a living thing, alive only in memory or history, in black and white pictures.

BY AA PATAWARAN

Aug 17, 2024 08:28 AM

  

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When exactly was the decline of the socialite, who once ruled the world from her throne among the ladies who lunched in such hallowed places as The Colony or Le Pavillon in New York City—and at the right table, dressed in Mainbocher or any custom number worthy of a Cecil Beaton portrait, and with just the right company like Truman Capote?

Juan Luna's 'Hymen, oh Hyménée!' masterpiece (Photo by Noel Pabalate) 

The dictionary definition of socialite is lame, “a person who is well-known in fashionable society and is fond of social activities and entertainment.” On the internet, it is still a raging topic, but the questions are even more lame, if not downright stupid, questions like “Is a socialite a social climber? What is the difference between a socialite and a courtesan? Is it a difficult job, being a socialite?” But what is a socialite? 

“There is no one definitive answer to this,” said a girl named Catriona in an internet forum. “[It’s] simply a person thrust (sometimes unwillingly) into a particular role. In my case it was something that fell on me when I married a very ambitious man with delusions of social grandeur.”

 

She intimated what being a socialite had been like for her, in retrospect, since her marriage to this “delusional” man had ended. “My days consisted of worrying about whether I was up to the planning and presentation of his facade. Did I know how to make the latest cocktail? If not, could I find someone who did on a moment’s notice?” she confessed, which sounded to me so much like an ordeal. “Was our home filled with the best… and decorated to impress…? I am not an extrovert and it was pretty much the seventh level of hell having to discover what each of my husband’s guests was likely to want to talk about, and learning all I could about it, whether it was the restoration of Samurai swords, the writing of HTML code, the makes and models of Boeing aircraft, or the likelihood of a stock market crash in the next 18 months.” 

Babe Paley, is that you? 

 

But Babe Paley, as you know, ever the doyenne of the New York social scene, Truman Capote’s foremost swan, and best dressed of all time, would never dare say such a thing about her husband, CBS founder William Paley, whom the rumor mill portrayed as a womanizer and whom Truman Capote revealed in his roman à clef “La Cote Basque 1965” as the cause of Babe’s broken, never mended heart. Neither would she have said anything remotely similar to what Catriona said of her erstwhile husband. The socialite would find it so inelegant, if not so vulgar, to wash dirty linen in public.

Photo courtesy of Edgar Allan

The fascination is still there, for sure. It persists in me, who grew up on the pages of my mother’s copies of Vogue, where the world, for the most part, was a trove of treasures in the form of a snow-covered chalet in Gstaad, breakfast champagne at the Grand Hotel in Rome, a beach trip to Coopers Beach at the Hamptons, and dressed for show, say, in the case of the Hamptons, in Emilio Pucci swimwear.

 

The socialite was the personification of polite society, the embodiment of a collective aspiration to graceful living, though it has become a kind of nostalgia, no longer a living thing, alive only in memory or history, in black and white pictures. 

 

But before we digress further, other than being a celebrity or royalty, who is much in demand at parties, how does one become a socialite? First to come to mind is that one at least has to be an object of beauty, arm candy on some man or walker to a lady, or—in the case of Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, who said, “I'm nothing to look at, so the only thing I can do is dress better than anyone else.”—command attention. Imelda Marcos once told me, “You sense beauty more than you see it. I know. Anywhere I go, when I walk into a room, people turn to look at me. We don’t have eyes on our backs, do we?”

Photo courtesy of Edgar Allan

You could say a socialite has to be rich, but not really, like Truman Capote, who was welcomed into the sanctum sanctorum of New York’s upper crust. If you can’t be rich, then you ought to have rich friends, who can fly you to the moon on their Gulfstream G700, or sail you across the seven seas on their luxury yacht, or drive you around on their Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail. Before you say “social climber,” remember that you can be as rich as the friends you hang around with and because you are friends, you get to stay for free in a villa that is owned by one of them in a historic building in the Campo San Polo in Venice, just as any of your friends can stay free of charge in your duplex at 220 Central Park South in Manhattan. 

 

Supposing you have no private jet, sailboat, or luxury car to share with your bosom buddies, then to be a socialite, you must have something else to bring to the table—your wit, for instance, or your personal style, your social charm, your sense of humor, or your golden friendship. 

 

Back in the day, you couldn’t be a socialite, unless the media took notice of you, unless you landed in the pages of uppity magazines or in the newspaper headlines.

 

I might be wrong, but pop culture has guillotined the socialite just as the French Revolution killed Marie Antoinette.

 

In just the same way as possession obsession, all that waltzing around in a dazzling display of wealth, nod-nodding to consumerism and inconspicuous consumption, has been exhausted by such pop culture movies as The Devil Wears Prada, Zoolander, even documentaries like The September Issue or The Grey Gardens, the socialite has been dragged back to earth by the seemingly innocuous raiding of her closets in Gossip Girl, The Nanny Diaries, Downton Abbey, W.E., even Mean Girls.

 

In its obsession with exposes and BTS, the 1980s thrust the socialite under a magnifying glass and we all looked in and gasped: “You’re no different than us, you’re just like every last one of us!”

 

And then social media took over, democratizing everything, where a single viral post could catapult you to the A-list—for how long, who knows?—in much the same way as, just a decade before Instagram ruled the world, winning a reality show could turn you into a household name, whether or not you were beautiful, elegant, sophisticated, graceful, world-wise, or stylish.

 

It doesn’t really matter now how you look, speak, move, think, or behave, as long as you fetch the numbers in terms of views, likes, follows, or shares.

 

The socialite is dead.