Eka Kurniawan
Writing
Biography
Eka Kurniawan (born on November 28, 1975, in Tasikmalaya, West Java) is an Indonesian writer, novelist, and essayist known internationally. He is one of the most recognized modern Indonesian authors, with his works translated into various languages. Eka studied at the Faculty of Philosophy at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) and began writing actively during his college years. His debut novel, "Beauty Is a Wound" (2002), received widespread acclaim for its unique blend of magical realism and Indonesia’s social history. His works often explore themes of violence, politics, and the lives of marginalized communities. Another well-known novel, "Man Tiger" (2004), was longlisted for the 2016 Man Booker International Prize, making him the first Indonesian writer to achieve this recognition. His other notable work, "Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash" (2014), was adapted into a film by Edwin and won the Golden Leopard at the 2021 Locarno Film Festival. In addition to novels, Eka actively writes essays, short stories, and literary criticism. His works have been translated into English, French, German, Japanese, and several other languages, expanding the global reach of Indonesian literature. With his distinctive writing style and bold exploration of complex themes, Eka Kurniawan is regarded as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Indonesian literature.
Known For
Two sisters deal with the sudden death of their mother at a wig factory. One believes it was suicide while the other is certain it was a result of possession and takes a job at the factory to uncover the truth. Meanwhile, their brother - born with an eerie gift to regenerate his own body - catches the attention of a ghostly figure roaming the factory, searching for a vessel to inhabit.
Sleep No More
Ajo Kawir is a fighter who fears nothing, not even death. His raging urge to fight is driven by a secret: his impotence. When he crosses paths with a tough female fighter named Iteung, Ajo gets beaten black and blue, but he also falls head over heels in love. Will Ajo’s path lead him to a happy life with Iteung, and, eventually, his own peace of mind?
Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash
Since his mother left him, Bejo, 5 years old, has often experienced strange events, ranging from little girls appearing and disappearing at the edge of the forest, fairies dancing for him, his magical friend Rohman always accompanying, protecting him, but also taking part of his property, to the Buto Giant who always applied to be his friend. The incident filled the emptiness of Bejo's heart throughout his life. Bejo's life is no longer able to distinguish between reality and his fairy tale world. He grows up with his eternal childhood with him.