German poet's anthology launched in Bali

DENPASAR: The Indonesian version of the fifth poetry anthology from German poet Hans Magnus Enzenberger was launched over the weekend by Bali's state-owned radio station, RRI Bali.

The book's translators, Berthold Damshauser of Germany and Agus S. Sarjono of Indonesia, attended the launching ceremony last Saturday in Denpasar.

"Enzensberger is a famous Germany poet from the World War II era," said Damshauser, who founded the local commission of Indonesian and German language and literature.

"Known as an inspirational writer, he offered pieces that were full of irony and satire.

"He also had a great reputation as an essayist in politics and culture.

"In this anthology, we present a collection of Enzensberger's poems from the last 50 years."

During Saturday's ceremony, members of the Teater Angin and Antariksa theater clubs also presented musical poems.

Organizer Ni Putu Rastiti said the event was aimed at promoting foreign literature among the Balinese readership. -JP