November 17 2020

One can’t help but build assumptions about Ricky Lee. Looking at his long list of accomplishments, his celebrated film reel, and his glittering awards, it is so easy to create an image of a respected genius; all-knowing and high above us all. It is also easier to surmise that this legendary man who has defined an age of Philippine cinema will also be the kind of instructor who will neatly show you all the right ways to be a writer.

But Ricky Lee has defied all these flimsily-held beliefs. Greeting us with his brilliant smile as he was introduced to the audience of his live webinar Secrets to Storytelling, he shyly confesses that he doesn’t like having the camera on him so if we’d kindly switch to gallery view, he’d be much obliged. He also requested the audience to turn on their cameras and mics, wanting to see and hear everything we’re feeling.

“Stories can transcend time and space; stories surround us everyday,” he begins. Ricky Lee was speaking from the comfort of his own home, a space cluttered by countless well-worn books and comfortable throw pillows. This was the place where his famed workshops have taken place over the decades; where he has guided and influenced scores of writers. And despite the screen necessitated by the pandemic, Ricky Lee is no less warm. His voice is like a warm cup of tea on a cold day or a bedtime story tucking you in.

He shares how he first fell in love with books, a thin orphan boy hungry for something to hold on to wandering around the local library. It was there that he learned his first lesson in writing: empathy. The librarian showed him kindness and let him stay at all hours reading books. It was there that he found belonging. This desire to belong and connect with people has propelled him in writing his stories.

Revealing more and more about his life, he presents 10 tips in his writing, meandering once in a while with a detailed anecdote. He takes us through his highs (seeing Himala’s poster with his name emblazoned on it for the first time) and his lows (crying after losing an award for the first time), always weaving heart and soul into the life experiences he shares.

Alas, the time eventually runs out. The spell is almost broken; if not for the audience clamoring for more. Genially, Ricky Lee extended his time, listening to questions posed by the audience. By the time the webinar ultimately ends, the people are clamoring for more of him.

The ESME exclusive Ricky Lee webinar ‘Secrets to Storytelling’ is still available for viewing. For just PHP 999, you’ll get unlimited access to the recording, supplementary worksheets, and a digital certificate. Enroll Now

By: Glenielle Geraldo Nanglihan

Glenielle has been writing since she was ten years old. She is currently the Features editor of The LaSallian, De La Salle University-Manila’s student publication. 

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