When it comes to the most inspiring person in my life, it changes every period. It's not something to imitate. But, to this day, Ayu Utami is my inspiration. I read almost every book she publishes. Why do I mention Ayu Utami?
I'm captivated by the characters developed in Larung and Saman, especially Larung. I love Larung's portrayal. I feel like I want a partner like Larung. But I realize that such characters only exist in novels.
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Picture by Nurdiani Latifah
I've always read Ayu Utami's novels. All the female and male characters are very assertive and straightforward. From that, I understand that these characters are indeed the author's characters. The author's identity is that of a strong feminist. That really inspires me.
I like her thoughts, especially on feminism. Ayu Utami pours them into literature. Her works have become phenomenal. I call it Ayu Utami's literature, the literature of resistance. Ayu Utami's comments are quite subtle.
Picture by Nurdiani Latifah
However, Ayu Utami's work opened my eyes to the conditions faced during the New Order and the Reformation. Her writing style is straightforward and steady. It seems to reflect Ayu Utami's daily life. There's no hesitation in her works.
Since reading Ayu Utami, I've always aspired to be someone who is both subtle and decisive. I can read Ayu Utami's thoughts and ways of solving problems. Her work also involves many types of customs in Indonesia. Talking about Ayu Utami seems never-ending.
What's important to me is freedom of thought. Her works, or novels, are one way Ayu Utami expresses that. With the same prayer, I still want to meet Ayu Utami someday. But, when I release my work—my debut book—that's all I can share. What do you think?
Picture by Nurdiani Latifah
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