A satirical look at our society wins the 2011 SEA Write
Thirty-five year old painter/cartoonist/writer Jadet Kamjorndej won this year's SEA Write award for his debut book entitled "Daed Chao Ron Kern Kwa Ja Nang Jib Kafae" ("The Morning Sun is too Hot for One to Sit Outside and Sip Coffee").
The book, printed by Pajonphai Publishing, is a compilation of 12 short stories each written in an innovative and experimental manner. The style is rather abstract and the language satirically mocks our dysfunctional society. However, the stories also take on a philosophical bent and look into human nature, as if challenging the reader to look beyond the words and re-examine the society they live in.
In its announcement, the judging committee said the short stories inspired readers to develop a fresh perspective on life and that this was meaningful and worth studying.
"Daed Chao Ron Kern Kwa Ja Nang Jib Kafae" was one of the seven out of 83 submissions that made it to the shortlist.
This year's finalists offer tales on anything ranging from everyday life to magical journeys.
Though social issues are still the common ingredients, writers use broader perspectives and tell their stories in a provocative style. It is clear that the seven authors made it to the finals because their work could well contribute to Thailand's literature in the near future.
The other six finalists are Fah Poolvoralak's "24 Ruang San Khong Fah", Pichedsak Popayak "Ruang Kong Ruang", Anusorn Tipayanon's "Nimit Wikarn", Rewat Panpita's "Kradook Kong Kwam Luang", Jakkapan Kangwan's Parbpayong Tee Tai Tam Talot Chewit" and Want Yuangkaeo "Bandai Krajok".
Tanatat Kongthong, a lecturer at the Thai Chamber of Commerce University, chaired the panel of judges, which was comprised of seven academics including two magazine editors.
