Authors, particularly in Indonesia, are often convinced they are important citizens of society-more important than their works. The 'literati syndrome' is often infectious.

In times past, the pujangga or 'literati' were considered the mouthpiece of fatwa, guides to the gate of truth. They were placed, or placed themselves, on a higher, purer level in behavior and knowledge.

The nineteenth century Javanese author Ronggowarsito titled one of his works Se