Library Journal
French literary critic and novelist Jordis is attracted to Indonesia primarily for its arts. This book, published first in France and then in Britain, is a highly impressionistic, dreamlike account of her recent travels there. She writes about the ancient myths, dance, music, and puppetry of the islands of Bali and Java, where she has spent most of her time, and identifies European artists, notably Spires and Rimbaud, who also fell under the spell of Indonesian culture. The illustrations and maps are simple black-and-white sketches. Current political and economic problems, which have been keeping tourists away, are not discussed. But as conditions in Indonesia improve and tourism bounces back, this book will help meet a need. Recommended for larger public libraries.-Harold M. Otness, formerly with Southern Oregon Univ. Lib., Ashland Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.
Bali, Java in My Dreams
by Christine Jordis, George Blanda, Sacha JordisRelying on atmosphere and sensation over fact and statistic, Christine Jordis has written a deeply personal, vividly impressionistic account of several journeys to the Indonesian islands of Bali and Java. Dazzled, wide-eyed, but always astute, Jordis describes famous monuments, native dances, encounters with locals. She conjures up the various literary and artistic
Overview
Relying on atmosphere and sensation over fact and statistic, Christine Jordis has written a deeply personal, vividly impressionistic account of several journeys to the Indonesian islands of Bali and Java. Dazzled, wide-eyed, but always astute, Jordis describes famous monuments, native dances, encounters with locals. She conjures up the various literary and artistic figures who sought refuge and inspiration in Indonesia—Arthur Rimbaud, Herman Melville, Joseph Conrad—and brings ancient legends to life. She chronicles fascinating sociological observations and historical curiosities, but it is Jordis' sensual, emotional responses to her surroundings that most distinguish Bali, Java, in My Dreams from the average East-meets-West travelogue. From the heart of the lush tropical forests, Jordis guides her readers through the technicolor paradise that makes Paris seem grey in comparison.
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Product Details
- ISBN-13:
- 9781860469954
- Publisher:
- Random House UK
- Publication date:
- 02/19/2003
- Pages:
- 192
- Product dimensions:
- 5.80(w) x 8.20(h) x 0.72(d)
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