José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, began a third novel that remained unfinished. This work is less known than his famous novels but reveals a different side of his literary talent.
Origins in Hongkong
The manuscript was started in 1892 while Rizal was in Hongkong. During this time, he continued to write despite his exile and busy schedule, showing his relentless dedication to literature and social commentary.
The Title “Makamisa”
The novel is commonly referred to as Makamisa, but this was never the intended title. It actually came from a single chapter of the unfinished manuscript. The full story and its themes remain a mystery due to its incomplete state.
Language and Style
Rizal wrote this novel in Tagalog, unlike his other works that were mostly in Spanish. This shows his effort to reach Filipino readers directly and engage with local culture and language.
Legacy of the Unfinished Work
Even incomplete, the manuscript provides insight into Rizal’s creativity and his approach to storytelling. Historians continue to study it for clues about his literary vision and the ideas he wanted to explore.
