Goenawan Mohamad
Goenawan Mohamad
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Goenawan Mohamad is a renowned Indonesian poet, writer, editor, and journalist. He is often referred to as the "poet of democracy" for his contributions to Indonesia's transition from authoritarian rule to democracy.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on November 5, 1946, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Goenawan Mohamad is still active in his literary pursuits. No information is available regarding his passing.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Indonesian
Poet
Writer
Editor
Journalist
Early Life and Background
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Goenawan Mohamad was born into a family that valued literature and the arts. His father, a civil servant, encouraged Goenawan's interest in writing from an early age. After completing his education at Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, Goenawan began his career as a journalist for the Indonesian newspaper _Merdeka_. He eventually became the editor-in-chief of this publication and went on to establish the independent magazine _ Tempo_ , which would become a leading voice for social commentary and critique.
Major Accomplishments
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Goenawan Mohamad's contributions to Indonesian literature are multifaceted:
Establishment of Tempo Magazine: In 1971, Goenawan co-founded _Tempo_, a magazine that rapidly gained prominence for its in-depth analysis of the country's politics and social issues. Under his leadership as editor-in-chief, _Tempo_ became a powerful voice for democracy and human rights.
Promotion of Democracy: Through his writing and editing work at _Tempo_, Goenawan played a key role in promoting democratic values and principles during Indonesia's transition from an authoritarian regime to democracy. His efforts helped shape public opinion and influence political discourse in the country.
Literary Contributions: As a poet, Goenawan Mohamad has published numerous collections of poetry that explore themes of love, nature, and social justice. His work is known for its lyrical beauty and profound insight into the human condition.Notable Works or Actions
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Some of his notable works include:
"The Dream of Democracy": A collection of essays that reflect on Indonesia's journey towards democracy.
"The Poems of Goenawan Mohamad": A compilation of his poetry, which offers a glimpse into the poet's exploration of love, nature, and social justice.Impact and Legacy
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Goenawan Mohamad's impact extends far beyond his literary contributions:
Advocate for Democracy: His unwavering commitment to democratic principles has inspired generations of Indonesians to fight for freedom and human rights.
Literary Icon: As a poet, writer, and editor, he has left an indelible mark on Indonesian literature, paving the way for future generations of writers.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Goenawan Mohamad is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Visionary Thinking: His ability to foresee and articulate the aspirations of a nation transitioning from authoritarian rule to democracy has earned him recognition as a visionary thinker.
* Courageous Advocacy: His unwavering commitment to democratic principles, even in the face of adversity, has cemented his reputation as a courageous advocate for human rights.
In conclusion, Goenawan Mohamad is an Indonesian poet, writer, editor, and journalist who has made significant contributions to the country's transition from authoritarian rule to democracy. His literary works continue to inspire readers with their beauty, depth, and profound insight into the human condition.
Quotes by Goenawan Mohamad
Goenawan Mohamad's insights on:
Bagi saya, berdosa bukanlah inti rasa tragis. Intinya adalah kesadaran tentang ‘tepi’. Tepi bukanlah batas. Tepi mengandung sesuatu yang sepi, juga menunjukkan keadaan yang genting sebab siapapun akan sendirian ketika ada pelbagai sisi yang dihadapi, ketika seorang tak berada di satu pusat yang mantap. Bukan saja karena terang dan gelap ada dimana mana, tapi juga karena kedua duanya mengandung bahaya.
Catatan pinggir adalah suara manusia nomadik, yang tak pernah rela dikerangkeng kategori-kategori, apalagi bila kategorisasi itu totaliter dan tak adil. Suara manusia yang senantiasa berada ditepian, yang karenanya selalu peka dan waspada terhadap segala pihak yang tersisihkan.
Seorang pemikir pernah mengatakan satu kalimat pintar tentang revolusi, yang agaknya berlaku bagi segala aksi manusia besar-besaran dalam membentuk masa depannya: “Sifat yang ganjil pada revolusi ialah bahwa ia harus yakin akan dirinya sebagai sesuatu yang mutlak, dan ia justru menjadi tak mutlak karena keyakinannya itu”.
Banyak jawaban jadi tunggal dam mutlak, ketika banyak pertanyaan tak bisa diam dan kekejaman terus terjadi.
Bahkan di istana sadam hussein yang megah pun, ia, seperti tiap penguasa yang mutlak, selalu ada seperti itu: tak ada percakapan yang tulus, yang ada hanya tembok dan ketakutan.
Bukan karena Republik sedang diancam keretakan teritorial. Lebih serius ketimbang pecahnya wilayah adalah Indonesia yang sedang kehilangan “komunitas.
Seseorang yang menafikan dunia seharusnya seorang yang membiarkan dunia dalam cacatnya. Bumi, “dunia ini”, telah diabaikan. Maka ganjil bila orang itu pada saat yang sama juga ingin meluluhlantahkan apa yang buruk sekarang, seakan yakin bahwa dunia layak diperbaiki. Ganjil pula bila ia percaya kepada Tuhan yang mengatakan bahwa membunuh seseorang sama artinya dengan membinasakan seluruh umat manusia, sebab Tuhan itu adalah Tuhan yang tak menyesali apa yang ia ciptakan sendiri.
Orang akan hanya tidur bila ia menutup dirinya sendiri dari lalat yang bertanya.
Di bulan April 1978, di Aiglemont, Gouviuex, Prancis sebuah seminar diadakan oleh Aga Khan untuk membahas arsitektur Islam. Banyak pembicaraan menyesali hilangnya “ciri Islam” dalam kota dan bangunan baru di Timur Tengah kini. Hanya seorang ahli sejarah dari Turki, Dogan Kuban, yang memenangkan debat itu dengan mengingatkan, bahwa “arsitektur adalah sebuah profesi yang berorientasi kepada klien”. Jika klien yang di Riyadh itu suka gedung model New York, mau apa?