If Fortune Does Not Favor

By Selasih  (author), Patricia Henry (translator)

First published in 1933, Kalau Tak Untung (If Fortune Does Not Favor) is the first Indonesian novel written by a woman—Sariamin Ismail, who wrote under the pseudonym, Selasih. While of great historical interest for that fact alone, more importantly the novel gives a unique perspective on the complex situation for Indonesian women, and Minangkabau women particularly, during the pre-independence period of Indonesian history. Told in large part through letters between Rasmani and Masrul, two starcrossed lovers, the novel gives an intimate look into the emotional lives of young people on the cusp of entering the modern age of Indonesian nationalism.