Dee Lestari
Dee Lestari
Indonesian Author, Poet, and Activist
Full Name and Common Aliases
Dee Lestari is a pen name used by Indonesian author Diah Anggraini. She is also known for her work under the name Diah Anggraini.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on April 12, 1976, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Indonesian; Author, Poet, Activist
Early Life and Background
Dee Lestari grew up in a family of modest means. Her father was a high school teacher, and her mother was a housewife. She developed an interest in writing at a young age, inspired by the works of Indonesian authors such as Pramoedya Ananta Toer.
Lestari's early life was marked by her experiences with poverty and social inequality. These themes would later become central to her writing. After completing high school, she moved to Jakarta to pursue higher education, studying at the University of Indonesia.
Major Accomplishments
Dee Lestari has achieved significant recognition in Indonesian literary circles for her poetry collections and novels. Her work often explores themes of social justice, feminism, and environmentalism. Some of her notable works include:
"Perahu Kertas" (Paper Boat), a novel that won the 2009 Jakarta Arts Award
"Di Bawah Umur" (Under Age), a poetry collection that examines the struggles of Indonesian women
Lestari's writing has been praised for its unique blend of traditional and modern themes. She has also become known for her activism, particularly in advocating for women's rights and environmental protection.
Notable Works or Actions
"Perahu Kertas" (Paper Boat): A novel that won the 2009 Jakarta Arts Award, exploring themes of social inequality and feminism.
"Di Bawah Umur" (Under Age): A poetry collection examining the struggles of Indonesian women.
* Activism: Lestari has been involved in various initiatives promoting women's rights and environmental protection.
Impact and Legacy
Dee Lestari's work has had a significant impact on Indonesian literature, inspiring a new generation of writers to explore themes of social justice and feminism. Her activism has also raised awareness about important issues affecting Indonesian society.
Her writing often challenges traditional notions of identity, culture, and society. Through her poetry and novels, she provides a voice for marginalized communities and offers a critique of the status quo.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Dee Lestari is widely quoted and remembered for her powerful and thought-provoking writing, as well as her tireless activism. Her work has resonated with readers across Indonesia and beyond, inspiring a new generation of writers and activists to follow in her footsteps.
Her legacy extends far beyond her literary achievements, as she continues to be a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights. As a writer, poet, and activist, Dee Lestari remains an important figure in Indonesian cultural and intellectual life.
Quotes by Dee Lestari
Dee Lestari's insights on:

Drama adalah komplikasi. Drama membuat kalian egois, berpikir kepentingan pribadi kalianlah yang paling penting.

Cinta butuh dipelihara. Bahwa di dalam sepak terjangnya yang serba-mengejutkan, cinta ternyata masih butuh mekanisme agar mampu bertahan.

Well, semua peristiwa hanyalah semata-mata peristiwa, tapi cara kita menyikapinyalah yang memberi label, kan? Entah itu diberi judul tragedi atau keberuntungan.

Ketika kita balikan cara pandang kita, kenyataan pun berubah. Ternyata, pelacuran terjadi di mana-mana. Hampir semua orang melacurkan waktu, jati diri, pikiran bahkan jiwanya. Dan bagaimana kalau ternyata itulah pelacuran yang paling hina?

Satu-satunya cara untuk mengetahui asal-usulmu adalah keluar, lalu kembali. Kamu pikir si Adam itu tahu dirinya istimewa kalau tidak dibuang dulu ke bumi?

Mereka yang tidak paham dahsyatnya api akan mengobarkannya dengan sembrono. Mereka yang tidak paham akan energi cinta akan meledakkannya dengan sia-sia.

Manusia menuntut manusia lain untuk punya drama. Itu syaratnya supaya kita kelihatan normal.


