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Page 2 "Oh, my God. How beautiful and elegant you are, Nyoman. Where did you get this?" Nyoman was surprised.
"This is one of the dresses you gave me this afternoon."
"Really?"
"Yes"
"Oh, my God. I don't even remember owning this. Where did l buy it? But that's not
important. The important thing is that you )iave found use for it. Now, do
I look as beautiful and elegant as you do now when l wear Balinese dresses?" Nyoman was confused.
"Of course, Linda. More-beautiful."
Linda didn't believe her. She kept looking at and admiring Nyoman all evening.
"Nyoman, you are the most beautiful woman in the world",
said Linda, introducing Nyoman to her friends.
The next day, Nyoman took Linda to the airport. Nyoman wore her songket and kebaya once
more, while Linda wore the dress
had on when she arrived in Bali. It was an elegant dress belonging to an
executive woman.
"I'm glad you haven't asked me why I'm wearing this dress again, rather than my sarong, particularly now I'm Balinese said Linda.
"Of course not." Nyoman replied.
"Why not?"
Nyoman simply smiled.
"Don't hide behind a smile.
Tell me, why?" Linda pestered.
Nyoman took Linda's hand. "Because you are a tourist. You can say anything you wish."
Linda was startled, but then she hugged Nyoman.
"You're great. That's what makes me choose Bali for a holiday again next year."
Jakarta, 25-12-99
Translated by Anom Permatasari
Illustration by A. Mulyadi,
 Putu Wijaya is a well-
known and a well- respected artist in Indonesia.
Born in the Regency of Tabanan, this Balinese artist also has an International reputation. He is known for his theatre arts, movie direction, and especially, for his short story writing, Besides producing many world-class theatre performances, he is also recognised as a highly productive writer, many of his books - such
as "Blok" and "Protes"- reaching best-seller status. His works aim to shock and confront the reader, which is, according to
Wijaya, an entertainment element designed to grab the audience's attention. |
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