“Call Me…”
Kartini’s language, the language of a 20-year-old, is like a storm, although not immediately evident. It is not linear, or flat. Hyperbole arises in many sections, particularly when she mentions something (or someone) that she likes. Exclamation marks abound.
Goenawan Mohamad
May 3, 2021
WHO was Kartini? As a historical figure we know her from her letters—an impressive record of her thinking; moving, sometimes confusing, but always discussing ideals and her world. But can we conclude ‘who’ she was?
Kartini wrote dozens of letters to her friends and acquaintances, which were made public after her death. Private correspondence can indeed be a key to enter someone’s self, but letters to a friend are still no
...