Ahmad Tohari
Ahmad Tohari: Indonesian Author and Activist
Full Name and Common Aliases
Ahmad Tohari is a renowned Indonesian author, best known by his pen name Ahmad Tohari.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on 1944, not much information is available about his date of death.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Indonesian author, activist
Early Life and Background
Ahmad Tohari was born in the city of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Growing up during a tumultuous period in Indonesian history, he developed a strong sense of social justice and a desire to speak out against injustice.
As a young man, Tohari became interested in literature and began writing short stories and novels that explored themes of politics, culture, and society. His early works were heavily influenced by the Indonesian independence movement and the country's struggle for self-determination.
Major Accomplishments
Tohari's literary career spans over four decades, during which he has written numerous critically acclaimed novels, short story collections, and essays. Some of his most notable works include:
The Journey (1985) - a novel that explores the complexities of Indonesian culture and society
The Last Valley (1992) - a collection of short stories that examine the human cost of conflict and war
Tohari's writing has been widely praised for its nuanced portrayal of Indonesian society, its thought-provoking exploration of social justice issues, and its ability to engage readers with complex moral dilemmas.
Notable Works or Actions
Throughout his career, Tohari has been recognized for his contributions to Indonesian literature. He has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Indonesian National Award for Literature in 1995.
In addition to his literary achievements, Tohari has also been an outspoken advocate for social justice and human rights. He has worked tirelessly to promote literacy and education among Indonesia's marginalized communities and has spoken out against government policies that undermine individual freedoms.
Impact and Legacy
Ahmad Tohari's impact on Indonesian literature is immeasurable. His writing has inspired generations of readers and writers, providing a unique perspective on the country's complex social, cultural, and political landscape.
Tohari's commitment to social justice and human rights has also made him a respected figure in Indonesia's literary community. He continues to write and advocate for positive change, inspiring his fellow citizens to work towards a more just and equitable society.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ahmad Tohari is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:
Thought-provoking writing: His novels and short stories are known for their thought-provoking exploration of social justice issues, complex moral dilemmas, and the human cost of conflict and war.
Social activism: Tohari's commitment to promoting literacy and education among Indonesia's marginalized communities has made him a respected figure in the country's literary community.
* Authentic voice: His writing provides a unique perspective on Indonesian society, culture, and politics, making him a valuable resource for readers seeking insight into the complexities of this fascinating country.
Quotes by Ahmad Tohari
Bila perempuan sudah berkata tidak, dan hanya tidak, maka susah. Lain bila “tidak” itu masih diikuti kata-kata lagi, masih berbuntut. Maka buntut itu, apa pun bunyinya, adalah sekadar prasyarat, sebuah tantangan yang harus ditundukkan.
Merugilah orang yang mengabaikan tiga perkara teras kehidupan. Yakni terampil, keutamaan, dan kepandaian. Bila triperkara ini ditinggalkan, punahlah citra keutamaan manusia. Dia tidak lebih utama daripada daun jati kering; melarat, mengemis, dan menggelandang.
Tak ada manusia yang lebih puas daripada dia yang baru saja berhasil menerangkan arti keberadaannya.
Betapa kecil manusia di tengah keperkasaan alam. Di bawah lengkung langit yang megah Nyai Sakarya beserta cucunya merasa menjadi semut kecil yang merayap-rayap di permukaan bumi, tanpa kuasa dan tanpa arti sedikit pun.
Kebanyakan buku tentang penderitaan keluarga orang yang dianggap terlibat G-30-S tahun 1965 ditulis dengan kemarahan. Buku ini malah mengalir dengan nuansa ketabahan dan keuletan menempuh ujian sejarah. Dan muaranya adalah pencerahan hidup dan kesyukuran.
Mereka mengira dengan melampiaskan dendam maka urusannya selesai. Nah, mereka keliru. Dengan cara itu bahkan mereka memulai urusan baru yang panjang dan lebih genting. Di dunia ini, Nak, tidak ada sesuatu yang berdiri sendiri. Tak suatu upaya apa pun yang bisa bebas dari akibat. Upaya baik berakibat baik, upaya buruk berakibat buruk.
Mereka mengira dengan melampiaskan dendam maka urusannya selesai. Nah, mereka keliru. Dengan cara itu bahkan mereka memulai urusan baru yang panjang dan lebih genting. Di dunia ini, Nak, tak ada sesuatu yang berdiri sendiri. Maksudku, tak suatu upaya apa pun yang bisa bebas dari akibat. Upaya baik berakibat baik, upaya buruk berakibat buruk.
Pengalaman-pengalaman yang lembut dan santai mungkin tidak tercatat dalam garis-garis kehidupan secara nyata. Namun pengalaman-pengalaman yang keras dan getir tentu akan tergores dalam-dalam pada jiwa, pada sikap dan perlakuan, dan tak mustahil akan mengubah sama sekali keperibadian seseorang.
Pacaran adalah soal rasa. Tapi apa kamu mau makan rasa? Kalau keasyikan sering memabukkan orang pacaran, apa orang bisa kenyang, membangun rumah, membiayai kehidupan keluarga, hanya dengan keasyikan? Jadi, perhitungan yang nalar juga harus ikut bicara.
Seorang anak Dukuh Paruk mempertanyakan mengapa orang-orang komunis demi anu enak saja menghapuskan hak hidup banyak manusia biasa dengan cara yang paling gewang. Dan mengapa orang-orang biasa melenyapkan orang-orang komunis, juga demi anu, dengan cara yang sama. Jadi mengapa manusia bisa tetap eksis ketika kemanusiaan mati.