Indonesian poetry, like the country and also the language, is basically a product of this century. Only in the twentieth century have the people of this vast archipelago begun to achieve a unified cultural identity and national spirit; only since 1928 has the possibility, and by now the reality, of a common language been realized; and only since World War II have Indonesians achieved nationhood…
On the Verandah brings together the work of twelve contemporary Indonesian poets. The poems are presented in both Indonesian and English, together with notes on linguistic and cultural references, and a brief biography of each contributor. The translations have been crafted to keep faith with the rhythm and flow of the Indonesian poetry. The poems chosen offer a range of chronological, thematic…