From the King to Den Kisot / KBA
In this article: Goenawan Mohamad
Written by Ahmadie Thaha, and was originally published in KBA News
Mar 30, 2025
Written by Ahmadie Thaha, and was originally published in KBA News
Mar 30, 2025
Through Den Kisot, Goenawan Mohamad reimagines Don Quixote in an Indonesian context, blending literature, wayang golek, and social critique. His adaptation not only pays homage to Cervantes but also reflects the struggles of Indonesian writers against oppression and conformity. As a journalist, playwright, and poet, GM continues to challenge rigid structures with his relentless pursuit of truth and artistic expression.
The recognition from the King of Spain underscores GM’s role in bridging Indonesian literature with global narratives. From Catatan Pinggir to Den Kisot, his works capture the enduring Quixotic spirit—idealism in the face of adversity. His fusion of Indonesian and Spanish literary traditions ensures that the fight against dogma and authoritarianism remains a central theme in contemporary discourse.
Read the full article here.
The recognition from the King of Spain underscores GM’s role in bridging Indonesian literature with global narratives. From Catatan Pinggir to Den Kisot, his works capture the enduring Quixotic spirit—idealism in the face of adversity. His fusion of Indonesian and Spanish literary traditions ensures that the fight against dogma and authoritarianism remains a central theme in contemporary discourse.
Read the full article here.
