Ali Akbar Navis or better known by the name of AA Navis is an author whose works are appreciated by the public. The man from Minangkabau, West Sumatra, has produced works in the form of five anthologies of short stories, five novels, and a poem anthology. The work was the result of observation and contemplation of various political and social events that happened during the colonial era, the beginning of independence, the Old Order, New Order up to the Reform Era. "The events and social situation in the past were very influential in the production process of the works," said Ivan Lim in his open examination of doctoral program which took place at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Wednesday (24/12).
In his dissertation, entitled AA Navis on Literature Arena in Indonesia, Ivan said that the production of literary work is not only about producing literary works that are beautiful and interesting to read. Moreover, literature is an intellectual man who struggles to make observations and reflection on surrounding social issues expressed by the writer.
Being raised in the city of Padang Panjang and attended school in the area of Kayutanam, for 11 years, Navis got the education and character formation of egalitarian pattern of relationships between students and teachers that left a lasting impression and influence on the attitude of Navis when he grew up. "At this school he studied music, art and began to love literature," said Ivan.
The author of Robohnya Surau Kami novel, added Ivan, is known to be active in the literary community discussion groups and present in various scientific forums meetings. Even so, throughout his life, Navis chose to not enter government agency and official institutions, so he could freely observe and provide a critique of social phenomena ofthe environment. "The situation and social events around became an encouragement for him to write a literary work," he said.
Navis is also known as a poet who recognizes the reader’s taste. To write or publish his work, especially symbolic stories, or choose a universal theme with local feel, Navis is always smart to choose a genre that is appropriate to the current condition.