KAFKA 101

KAFKA 101

KAFKA 101 was successfully held on February 22, 2025, at c2o library and collabtive. The event was opened by Mike Neuber, Director of Wisma Jerman. With the theme “Grounding Kafka in the Archipelago,” Mike mentioned that Franz Kafka is a name in the literary world synonymous with mystery, absurdity, and humanity. Although his stories were written more than a century ago, they remain relevant today. His works are read all over the world and have become an inspiration.

The event moderated by Mr. Lutfi Saksono, M. Pd (Head of the German Literature Study Program at UNESA) was quite interesting. It began with a short video by Sigit Susanto, who translated several of Kafka’s works into Indonesian. He conveyed the creative process of translating the author’s works. It was also mentioned how he took the initiative to appreciate Kafka’s works into several regional languages in Indonesia by involving several local literary activists.

The discussion continued with a presentation by Yusri Fajar (author and lecturer of Universitas Brawijaya Malang) who explained that Kafka has placed characters in his short stories as symbols of dehumanization. For example, in the short story “Before the Law,” someone has to undergo a trial without a clear offense, with an unclear judicial process as well. This universal theme is still relevant today in Indonesia. On the other hand, Yusri also revealed that his efforts to understand Kafka’s works were carried out by retracing Kafka’s life.

This event is not just about celebrating Kafka as a writer but also appreciating his work through the diversity of languages. The publication of the book “In Front of the Law & Other Stories of Franz Kafka in 13 Regional Languages” is an effort to build a connection between Central Europe and the Indonesian archipelago, between the past and the present, between a unique literary heritage and the linguistic richness that forms the identity of the Indonesian nation.

This translation allows Kafka’s works to be enjoyed more widely. As expressed by Rizaldi AP, who translated Kafka’s short stories into Madurese, and Sugito Sostrosasmito, who translated them into Javanese. Each translator has different challenges, but they find a common thread that Kafka’s works are very relevant to be enjoyed in the beauty of regional literature, both Javanese and Madurese.

After discussing with the three speakers, the event continued with the reading of excerpts from Kafka’s short story titled “Before the Law” (Eade’na Hokom) by Rizaldi AP and “A Crossroad” (Siji Kepara Loro, Mangra Nyatane Mung Siji) by Sugito S. The event concluded with a short dramatic reading of “Metamorphosis” by Novi from Puri Aksara Rajapatni.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank all speakers, guests, and partners like c2o library and Puri Aksara Rajapatni for their support and we look forward to welcoming you back at another event.