Padi Merah Jambu

Reading level : Primary
Softcover : 24 pages
Publisher : PT Gramedia Pustaka Utama
ISBN : 118 0110 0007

When the sun sets, farmers at Dusun Kadiri do not know that fairies there paint the paddies which have grown tall and stoop golden yellow. But, suddenly Dewi Sri (the mother of the fairies) who also paints the paddies is sick and cannot work at all. That is why she asks frogs at the rice field help to the fairies painting the paddies, and they agree. On the next day, Dewi Sri is really shocked finding out the frogs has painted the paddies bright pink! The farmers there are confused with this strange phenomenon. What will Dewi Sri do? Do the frogs can finish their task? A flowing plot, a unique story, and cute pictures makes this book deserves to be categorized as “a must-have book for children”. Clara Ng and Herlina genuinely combine fairy tale and folklore and that is why this book is brilliant.

Reflecting Rectoverso

When I was senior high student, I read the first book of Dee (Dewi Lestari) entitled “Supernova: Ksatria, Puteri, dan Bintang Jatuh”. After reading that book, I knew I will fall in love with her and her books such as “Supernova: Akar”, “Supernova: Petir”, “Filosofi Kopi”, “Rectoverso”, and her newest book, “Perahu Kertas”.

Let me introduce to you the most unique book of Dee: Rectoverso (2008). Why unique? Because actually “Rectoverso” is not only a book with 11 short stories but also a CD with 11 beautiful songs. You may buy it separately, but it will be better if you enjoy it together. You will experience the new way to appreciate both fictions and songs.

Back to the book, there are 11 awesome short stories in “Rectoverso”. The themes of the short stories generally are still about love, but Dee gives other tastes of love like a friendship love, an unconditional love, and a forbidden love. Different with her recent books, Dee wrote “Rectoverso” with simple dictions—not as complicated as in Supernova Series. So, you won’t meet any difficulty to read this book.

Well, I have my own favorite short stories. They are “Curhat Buat Sahabat”, “Cicak di Dinding”, “Peluk”, “Grow a Day Older”, and “Tidur”. Here they are my responses to those stories:

***

“Yang aku butuhkan adalah orang yang menyayangi aku... dan segelas air putih. Keinginan itu... tidak ketinggian, kan?”
(What I need are someone who loves me… and a glass of water.
It is not… too high, right?)

“Curhat Buat Sahabat” tells about a friendship between a guy and a girl. This long term relationship makes them know each other very well—or maybe the guy knows more about the girl. In his deepest heart, the guy loves her—even though the girl loves another guy that makes her sometimes happy or sad (page 6, paragraph 5).

One day, the girl realizes; she is tired for waiting her ‘prince charming’ (page 6, paragraph 1). Then, she decides to wait someone who can love her the way she is—that will come to her side when she needs, with a glass of water (page 6, paragraph 8).
This short story gives a value of friendship. The guy is symbolized as a loyal person that always available whenever his best friend, the girl, needs him.

Meanwhile, the girl symbolizes a person that does not too care to her best friend since she fell in love with the other guy. She also does not see and realize that the guy who is always on her side—is her ‘real prince charming’ with a glass of water when she got sick.

In this short story, Dee makes a comparison between a glass of wine and a glass of water. Wine is symbolized luxury—the ‘prince charming’ that the girl fell into five years ago. Meanwhile, a glass of water symbolizes a pure love that the guy always gives to the girl, even though she does not know it yet.

***

“Kutitipkan mereka untuk menjaga kamu... mengagumi kamu.”
(I entrust them (the geckos) to watch you… to admire you)

First time I read the title, I thought “Cicak di Dinding” would tell about a child who really loves a song with the same title. But, yes, I made a mistake. After reading it, I conclude that this short story is the most romantic story in “Rectoverso”.

“Cicak di Dinding” tells about a guy who loves a girl that, unfortunately, is his best friend’s fiancée (page 86, paragraph 5). His best friend and the girl will get married soon. As a painter, the guy will give them a present—especially for the girl that really adores his art paintings (page 86, paragraph 1). He has a plan to draw an art painting in the small room in their future house with fluorescence. So, what kind of art painting that he will give to the lovely girl?

Dee succeeds to make a disgusting animal like gecko into an amazing animal that has a sense of romance. Gecko, in this story, symbolizes a person who is patient and never tired to give his/her love even though they know that someone he/she loves will not be theirs forever.

In this short story, Dee gives a message that you do not need to be her boyfriend or girlfriend officially to love him/her.

***

“Seseorang semestinya memutuskan bersama orang lain karena menemukan keutuhannya tercermin, bukan ketakutannya akan sepi”
(Someone must decide to be with another one because he/she finds his/her completeness reflected, not his/her fearfulness of being lonely)

“Peluk” brings us to a story about a guy that suddenly stops loving his girlfriend (page 54, paragraph 3) after six year relationship (page 57, paragraph 5).
The guy has no idea why he must do it—to break up with his someone special—, so does the girl. She really disappointed with what he done. She is hopeless (page 56, paragraph 1); she does not know how to find the other guy to replace him. Is the guy still willing to break-up?

“Peluk”, in my opinion, is the saddest story in “Rectoverso”. Can you imagine when your someone special come to you and say that he/she does not love you anymore without any clear reason? It might make you stressful and wonder why he/she can do that to you.

When first time read it, you may think that the guy is a bit insane. But, do not worry. He will try to explain the reasons why he wants to break-up, even though on the first until third paragraph you can see the guy still doubts with what he feels.
From this story, Dee shows that sometimes love, even though you have experienced it years, is still being an unexplained mysterious thing. It is also similar with separation. Most of people may think that separation is something hurts. But, in this short story, separation is better than being together with your special one that not special anymore in your heart.

***

“For me, a perfect chocolate bar should be bitter sweet, not all sweet, and certainly not all bitter, for then you lose all the fun.”

“Grow a Day Older” is one of two English short story in “Rectoverso”. It tells about a forbidden love between a girl and a guy. The girl has a lovely boyfriend and just made a beautiful pre-wedding picture (page 72, paragraph 5). So does the guy, he has a lovely girlfriend and would make a beautiful wedding picture. They have known each other, and they also know there are something happens between them; between their hearts (page 71, paragraph 1).

They are making a ‘friendship’, until the girl realizes that she cannot have another love in her heart and life (page 73, paragraph 1). So, she decides to give a farewell present to the guy on his birthday (page 73, paragraph 5)

This is my new experience to read an English short story of Dee. I thought it will be complicated, but Dee smartly wrote it in some simple words—dictions. So, the readers who do not fluent enough in English can understand and get the message from this story.

Talking about the message, this story teaches us how to make a decision even though you are in a complicated situation. You must follow your heart’s voice. Do not let the common proverb such as “go with the flow” lead you. Why? Because, ‘the flow’ just will lead you to nowhere but ‘ocean’, and I am sure you do not want ‘the ocean’ to be your last destination to continue your life.

***

“Sudah cukup lama aku tertidur, memejamkan mata demi melewatkan mimpi demi mimpi bersama kalian. Sekarang, biarkan aku yang terjaga”
(It’s been a long time I was sleeping, closing my eyes to allow dream by dream with you. Now, let me stay awake)

“Tidur” is the longest short story in “Rectoverso”. Having different theme with the others, this short story tells about a woman who will go home after working two years in the other country. Sounds simple, right?

Generally, someone will be very happy to go back to home after years. Actually, she is happy, but she feels nervous too (page 122, paragraph 1). She does not ready yet to feel her freedom and meet again with her husband and children (page 128, paragraph 8). Now, it does not sound simple anymore, right?

.About the character symbolizes a person who was willing to exchange her ‘home’ with ‘unknown place in a dream world’; her family with the new company (page 127, paragraph 6). She admits that she was sleeping and living in a dream world in the recent two years (page 127, paragraph 6). It makes her does not want to ‘sleep’ anymore and decides to stay awake until she arrives at home—watching her lovely husband and beautiful children who have grown up sleep (page 131, paragraph 6).

***

In my opinion, reading Rectoverso is like standing in front of the mirror. You may see your reflection in some stories in this book, whether it reflects your experience or feeling.

Overall, “Rectoverso” is a brilliant piece of work!

Paris Je T’aime

I always remember one of my favourite films when I heard about France. The title of the film is “Paris Je T’aime” (Paris I Love You). Actually, this film consists of 18 short movies. Different actor and actress, different director, different script-writer, different setting, but same theme: Paris. You’ll feel that you’re travelling around Paris when watching this film. Why? Because, this film serves you several beautiful places around Paris. I’m sure you’ll fall in love with Paris (or more) after watching this film.

My favourite short movie in this film is a story about the young French Boy and Moslem Girl. They met at the street that next a big river in Paris. The boy helped the girl that slipped because of the little stone. After that, they talked very close. This is the conversation between them that makes me very like this short movie.

Franois : You have a beautiful hair. Why are you forced to cover it up?
Zarka : I’m not forced. It was my choice.
Franois : Too bad. Because you are pretty.
Zarka : Thanks. But, do you mean that with it I’m ugly?
Franois : I didn’t mean that.
Zarka : You and your pals only insult women. Why do you talk like that, even though you know they don’t like it?
Franois : . . .
Zarka : It’s enough that I find myself pretty. When I wear my headscarf, I feel I have a faith—an identity. I feel good, and that’s also beauty.

***

Desperate Supermodel

Schedule for today is photo session for “Passion for Style” magazine at 2 p.m. And… what time now? What?! 1 p.m.! Oh, darn! I must arrive there as soon as possible! I need taxi!

I take my cell-phone and call Blue Bird Taxi. The taxi will arrive to my house in 15 minutes. While waiting the taxi, I put my make up in front of my big classic mirror. Look at my reflection, what a perfect face. I stand up and try to pose, and… yes, this sexy body makes every man stare at me. They want to touch me, I think. But, I’m not as cheap as they though. I’m a super model. Only a lucky guy who is able has me full.

The taxi has come. I take my Luis Vitton’s bag and wear Manolo Blahnik’s stiletto, also Dior’s sunglasses. Yes, Bandung is so hot this afternoon, I can’t stand it. I sit on back seat taxi after locking my own little house. My Peugeot is repairing at auto service station and it will be done tomorrow.

What time is it? 2 p.m.? Wow, I’m on time. Maybe because there’s no traffic jam at Bandung now. I arrive at “Passion for Style” Office. For your information, “Passion for Style” Magazine is one of the biggest and precious fashion magazines in Indonesia. I’m really grateful that I can be a cover model for the next month.
I’m welcomed by Disha, assistant of editor magazine. She leads me to the photo studio.

“Do you know Febrian Palevi?” asks Disha.

I crease my forehead. “Is he a photographer?”

“The best photographer that we have in this business,” says Disha.

When Disha said “the best photographer”, in my mind, Febrian is a 50 years old man with gray’s hair on his head. But, I see Disha’s expression when she said “Febrian Palevi”, she smiled brightly. Hm, it makes me curious. Maybe I’m wrong to guess the appearance of Febrian.

“There he is. Febrian!” greet Disha.

I’m seeing a young, athletic, and tall guy. He wears a tight white T-shirt and black skinny jeans. Is he Febrian? The hot one? Oh, yes, he is!

Febrian is staring at us while preparing his camera. He rises and approaches us.

“You must be Vivian Adelia, the supermodel,” Febrian is shaking my hand gently. Somehow, it feels that there is an electrical wave from his hand that makes me really adore him. Gosh, he’s so damn charming. And I think he’s 29 years old. Perfect!

“And you must be Febrian, the best photographer,” I smile.
“My pleasure you know my name.”
“Oh, Disha told me…”
“Yeah,” says Disha. “Vivi, you can come in to the make up room. There’s our make up artist who stand by for you.”

I’m walking to the make up room. I don’t know whether Febrian is still staring at me or not. Therefore, when I sat down in front of big mirror with ten lamps on the frame, I have the make-up artist not to close the door. Why? Because I’m able to see Febrian is preparing his camera and the settings for photo session in the mirror.
After the make up is done, Disha comes to the make up room while brings four Anne Avante’s kebayas. I had wear Chanel’s blazer, Dolce-Gabbana’s shirt, Vera Wang’s wedding gown, and other kind of stuffs. But, I think the best clothes that I’ve ever wear is kebaya. Kebaya makes me feel so beautiful and sexy.

I’m walking to the photo set. Again, Febrian is staring at me.

“You’re very beautiful,” says him.
I can’t hide my smile. “Every body knows it.”

The photo session begins. Febrian takes my photo very quickly. I approach him whom sees the photos on his laptop. Wow, the results are amazing! Kebayas that I wore were look so classic but classy. Now, I know why Disha calls Febrian as the best photographer.

“Are you busy after this?” asks Febrian suddenly.
“No,” answer me.
“Do you mind to enjoy some coffee at Starbucks with me?”

I’m a little bit surprised that he’s very aggressive. But, ya… no wonder! Every man always likes that if they face me.

“Sure, why not?” I take his offer.

An hour later, Febrian and I are at Starbucks Coffee at Bandung Indah Plaza. We have talked a lot: music, film, magazine, holidays, etc. you know what? I think we have the chemistry mysteriously.

No, I don’t see my bastard ex-boyfriends in front of me. I see Febrian now.
No, I don’t see Febrian, I see a perfect guy in front of me for my life now.

My heart has empty for two years. There’s no one can fill my emptiness. But, when first time I saw Febrian, I know that he can fill me.
What time is it? 7 p.m.? I must go home now. Febrian will take me home by his black Ferrari.

We’re walking to the basement. Febrian opens the car’s door and let me in. When he will start the car, we look each other. I know that he wants to make this moment is unforgettable. His face closer and closer to my face. I close my eyes. His right hand touches my left’s cheek. There’s something cool of his hand. I’m shocked and grasp his arm. A little thing that doesn’t visible until now: a ring on his finger. Febrian wears a ring. Is it a wedding ring??

Spontaneously, I slap his face. I have been cheated by Febrian. He’s married! But, why he flirted to me? And, he would kiss me a minute ago!

I get out from his black Ferrari and yell, “BASTARD!!!”

I walk to exit door.

I wipe out my tears.

This is my fault. I’m too easily falling in love to someone. Maybe because of that silly thing I’m still single at 27 now, even though I’m a supermodel.

I look back, and the Black Ferrari is gone. Arrgghh, it should be that I didn’t look back. It makes my tears fall again.

I think Febrian is just not that into me.

[ ]

Raden Ajeng Kartini

Kartini is one of the most famous women in Indonesia. She is the first who try to fight Women’s right in the post. Because of her struggle and big influence in Indonesia, she is categorized to be one of the heroines and the most well-know woman in Indonesia.
Raden Ajeng Kartini was born in Jepara, April 21st 1879. She was a daughter from The Regent of Jepara, Raden Mas Adipati Sastrodiningrat, and also a grand daughter from The Regent of Demak, Tjondronegoro.
When Kartini became an adult, she saw the women’s fate was full of darkness, emptiness, hopelessness, and just being men’s ornaments. So, she tried to change it. She socialized with ordinary people (not the riches one) and developed her ideas and ambition which would reorganize women social status. She had slogan like this: “We must make a history, we must decide our future which are suitable as woman, and we must get enough education as much as men get!”
In 1903, Kartini was married to Raden Adipati Joyoningrat, The Regent of Rembang. A role from her husband increased her activities in education. And because of his help, Kartini could build Sekolah Kepandaian Putri (Girl’s Accomplishment School) and she taught about woman’s accomplishment like sewing or other woman’s activities there.

Kartini passed away in 1904 when she was 25 years-old. Yes, she was too young and full of passion to die. But, her fights and dreams still exist until now. It’s proved that in developing period like now, those are some women who hold the important roles not only in the government but also in private domain (bidang swasta).

So, Kartini’s fights have been succeed to replace the women on the suitable “place”. She also raised the women from the dark side into the bright side, as suitable as her famous and phenomenal book, “Habis Gelap Terbitlah Terang”.

* * *

Translated and edited from
http://pkk.pemkab-tanjungjabungbarat.go.id/

ANTI ISRAEL DEMONSTRATIONS CONTINUED

In Jakarta, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Saudi Arabian Embassy to stop exporting oil to the United States, which is Israel's leading ally.

In other cities like Sukabumi, West Java or Jombang, East Java, demonstrators expressed their opposition to Israel's offensive against the Gaza Strip by calling for a boycott of American goods, urging Muslim unity and raising funds for the Palestinians.



source : metrotvnews.com/indonesiathismorning

He Wants to Meet Kachiew!!

It has been 4 months since I studied in Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (Indonesia University of Education) Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. I have so many new friends who always make me happy every single day.

Let me introduce one of my funniest friends. She is Citra Dewi Saraswati. You can call her Kachiew, but she will be happier if you call her “Kachiew Geulis” (Beautiful Kachiew). She is really tomboy. If you don’t know her, you’ll think she is a boy.

Do you want to know a funny story which involved her?

Okay, let me tell you. One day after Listening Class, I saw Kachiew was so busy with her cell-phone. She replied the message quickly and smiled. Hm, what was happen?

Suddenly, Icha—one of my classmates—said loudly, “Guys, Kachiew will meet a boy!”
“With who?” I asked.
“A boy who study in Faculty of Technique and Profession. He was in the same team with me when Orientation Week,” explained Kachiew.
“Oh my God… really? Cie cie . . .” I said.
“No, no… It’s not like that!” Kachiew rejected.
After that, Kachiew, Icha, Kidung, Yana, Chae, Dian, and I went to the parking lot in front of Faculty of Language and Art (out faculty). “The Boy” whom Kachiew would meet was there. Because my friends and I were so curious about “The Boy”, we had been pretending not to be Kachiew’s friends.
Four minutes later, there was a red motorcycle approached Kachiew.
“The boy is coming!” I said.
“Hm… nothing special about him,” Icha complained.
“Except the motor cycle, I think,” I replied.
After chatted about five minutes, Kachiew approached us with a book on her right hand.
“Guys, look at this,” said Kachiew.
“What’s that?” I asked.
“His English homework.”
“WHAAATTTT???!!!” We yelled together.
“Be quiet, guys! Let’s do this homework,” said Kachiew.
“So… he is…” Yana confused.
“He doesn’t miss you? He just needs your help to do his home work? Oh my God! That hurts, Kachiew! That hurts!!” I complained.
“It’s alright, guys!” Kachiew laughed.

So, after that, sometimes when my friends who are in the other faculties suddenly text me or call me, I always consider that probably they just want me to do their English home work. I don’t want it! Except they promise me that they will treat me Chicken Noodle someday! Hehehe… ~