Democracy
By Agam Wispi
generals, it's we that adorned
your chest with medals
wrested from landlords' and usurers' torturous hands
we now demand of your medals: where's our land
generals, it's we that adorned
your chest with medals
out of the sweat of a seven-hour that became a ten-hour work-day,
we now demand of yours medals : where's our pay?
generals, one after another we fell
arms in hand against the Dutch
we now demand of your medals: where's our Irian?
generals, certainly it's not you
who will give land, wages and Irian
what we want is : let us build one mighty front
and above all, give us freedom to speak.
Source: Contemporary Progressive Indonesian Poetry, 1962
Poem Analysis:
Agam Wispi’s poem Democracy serves as a powerful critique of political leadership and a call to action for the common people. Through its direct address to the military generals and its exploration of themes such as exploitation, sacrifice, and the quest for true democracy, the poem encapsulates the frustrations and aspirations of the working class. The poem not only highlights the disconnect between the ruling class and the common people but also emphasizes the need for collective action and the importance of freedom of expression.
Addressing Authority: A Direct Challenge to the Generals
The poem begins with a direct address to “generals,” establishing an immediate tone of confrontation. This address serves as a reminder that the power and authority of the military are derived from the people who have fought and sacrificed for their nation. The lines “it’s we that adorned / your chest with medals” assert the idea that the achievements of the generals are not solely their own but rather a result of the collective struggle and contributions of ordinary individuals. This rhetorical strategy emphasizes the disparity between those in power and the people they claim to represent.
The repetition of “we now demand” reinforces the collective voice of the working class, highlighting their frustrations and demands. By asserting ownership over the generals’ accolades, the speaker seeks to reclaim agency and challenge the notion of authority that is disconnected from the realities of the common people.
Exploitation and Labor: The Cost of Progress
Wispi delves into the exploitation of labor within the framework of economic and social injustice. The lines “out of the sweat of a seven-hour that became a ten-hour work-day” expose the harsh realities faced by workers who endure long hours for meager wages. This vivid imagery highlights the struggle of the working class, who contribute significantly to the economy yet receive little in return.
The demand for “our pay” signifies the growing resentment against systemic exploitation. By tying labor conditions directly to the demands for compensation, the poem illustrates the connection between economic justice and the broader struggle for democracy. This plea for recognition and fair treatment becomes a central theme of the poem, underscoring the need for a system that values the contributions of all individuals.
Historical Context and Collective Memory
The poem also references historical struggles, particularly the fight against colonialism, with the line “one after another we fell / arms in hand against the Dutch.” This historical context serves to remind the reader of the sacrifices made by the people in the pursuit of independence and sovereignty. The mention of the “Dutch” signifies the colonial legacy that has shaped the political landscape of Indonesia, framing the struggle for democracy as a continuation of the fight against oppression.
The demand for “our Irian” further emphasizes the political aspirations of the people. Irian, referring to the province of Papua, symbolizes not only territorial claims but also the broader quest for justice and recognition of indigenous rights. By invoking these historical struggles, Wispi connects the past to the present, suggesting that the fight for democracy is ongoing and rooted in a collective memory of resistance.
The Call for Unity and Action
The poem culminates in a powerful call for unity with the line, “what we want is: let us build one mighty front.” This statement underscores the importance of collective action and solidarity among the working class. The phrase “one mighty front” suggests the need for a unified movement that transcends individual grievances, emphasizing the idea that true democracy can only be achieved through cooperation and mutual support.
Additionally, the demand for “freedom to speak” highlights the essential role of free expression in a democratic society. This plea for the right to voice dissent and demand accountability from those in power encapsulates the essence of democratic ideals. Wispi's assertion that democracy is not merely a political system but a living practice that requires active participation is a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with citizenship.
Structure and Language
The structure of Democracy is characterized by repetition and direct address, creating a rhythmic quality that enhances its emotional impact. The consistent use of the phrase “we now demand” not only emphasizes the collective voice of the people but also builds a sense of urgency and insistence. This repetition serves to galvanize the reader, making the poem feel like a rallying cry for social justice.
Wispi’s language is both straightforward and evocative, employing imagery that conveys the harsh realities of exploitation while simultaneously inspiring a sense of hope and determination. The use of short, declarative sentences contributes to the poem’s assertive tone, reinforcing the speaker's demands and the seriousness of their plight.
A Demand for True Democracy
Agam Wispi’s Democracy is a powerful indictment of the disconnect between political leaders and the common people they represent. Through its exploration of themes such as exploitation, historical struggle, and the need for collective action, the poem serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing quest for social justice and true democracy.
By addressing the generals and demanding accountability for their actions, Wispi gives voice to the frustrations of the working class while emphasizing the importance of unity and freedom of expression. The poem ultimately advocates for a system that honors the sacrifices of the people and recognizes their rights, encapsulating the spirit of resistance and the aspiration for a more equitable society. In a world where democracy is often treated as a given, Democracy serves as a call to action, urging individuals to remain vigilant and active in the fight for their rights and the rights of others.