IN THE SHADOW OF ANGKOR

 

http://www.khmerviews.com/forum/viewtopic.php?pid=19

I remember quite well the first time I picked up the book.  It was back in May 2004 when praCh came to the University of Washington in Seattle for the Spirit of Cambodia Tour. 

The two of us were conversating; catching up on his music and his many projects.  Out of nowhere, he grabs the book from his duffle bag and I was caught by the beauty of the cover.  He humbly mentioned that he was included in the book, and I congratulated him. 

He handed the book for me to browse.  My eyes shined just skimming over the content.  There were essays, fictional pieces, interviews, a film script and poetry, for the most part, written by Cambodians.  I didn't want to return the book to praCh.

A couple months went by and I get this package in the mail.  To my amazement, praCh sent me a brand new copy of the book.  I called him immediately to thank him.

My euphoricness came rushing back into my veils from the experience I had months ago after first seeing the book.

I remember that first night I picked up the book.  I was at the local coffee shop.  My fingers were itching to draw open the first page. 

I had a sense of peace and comfort reading from the wise words of Maha Ghosananda.  I went into a state of confusion after reading Khun Srun's "I hate the word and letter (ta)".  I had to reread it many times just to re-stimulate my brain.  The interviews were awe-inspiring, especially on praCh and Soth Polin.  In sum, I see the book as a collection of pieces that draws out every human emotion.  And for that, I enjoy reading it over and over.

I am thankful towards Frank Stewart and Sharon May for compiling this book.  If they are reading this, I encourage they continue to help advance the progress of Khmer literature by publishing more contemporary works on Cambodia/Cambodians.


Best wishes, Phatry
University of Washington '03

Last edited by Phatry (2004-12-09 04:09:38)