Pramoedya Ananta Toer quotes

Pramoedya Ananta Toer was an Indonesian author and novelist renowned for his powerful works on colonialism and social justice. His books, such as the "Buru Quartet," brought Indonesia's history and struggles to a global audience. He remains a major literary figure who inspired readers worldwide with his resilience and humanism. Here are 15 of his quotes:

I happen to be pretty productive when I am in jail. When you are in jail, you have to spend more time with yourself.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Every award for me is important because it means a slap against militarism and fascism in Indonesia.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Every book that is banned is a badge of honor.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

At the beginning of all growth, everything imitates.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Painting is literature in colors. Literature is painting in language.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Pity is the feeling of well-intentioned people who are unable to act.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Life can give everything to whoever tries to understand and is willing to receive new knowledge.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

You must first of all think justly. Don't sit in judgment over others when you don't know the truth of the matter.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

I don't follow any kind of 'isms.' If there is one, it will be Pram-ism.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

A mother knows what her child's gone through, even if she didn't see it herself.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Even though no one admits it, writers are leaders in their communities.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Let us see whether it is the New Order or me who will be the loser before Indonesian history. I have won. The New Order has fallen and my writings have been translated into 40 languages.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer

I don't write to give joy to readers but to give them a conscience.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer