I'm still a virgin. It's the truth. I really am! So tell me father, how could the drum be broken? My father's name is Maulidun. He is the expert drummer, the one who, for the last twentyyears, has been called upon to play whenever a posuo is held. I hate him because hedisapproves of La Runduma, the … [Read more...]
Writings
Labyrinth of Violence
I know that when the time comes you’ll seek me out. Like the great explorers, you’ll trace my every step. It won’t be easy, because I’ve been silent for years, and for years I’ve kept my story safe in the depths of the valley, in the quiet at the end of the cape. Perhaps you’ll never find me. … [Read more...]
Letter in a used milk can
Hello, When you receive this letter, which I stored in a used milk can, please hand it to the one it is intended for, my mother. Of course, I know I shouldn’t really throw used milk cans into the ocean. Maybe sometime later, you can come by my house – I wrote the address on the back of the can – … [Read more...]
Me, Islam and Literature
He was astonished when he discovered I was a Muslim. He was a member of the Foreign Correspondents Club in Hong Kong, an Englishman whose name I’ve forgotten. I was contributing to a discussion at the club on Islam and the modern world. He asked my paternal family name, and when I replied, ‘Abdul … [Read more...]
Mobile Libraries in the Furthest Corners of Indonesia
Most public libraries in Indonesia aren’t mobile libraries, but are housed in buildings. However, this kind of library only has a limited reach due to Indonesia’s geographical location and the fact that the country consists of thousands of islands. Moreover, not all Indonesians feel comfortable … [Read more...]
