More Than Just Fiction: Exploring Literature as a Cultural Reflection of Life
Insights from Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, S.S., M.Hum.
What comes to mind when you hear the word literature? Novels, poetry, or short stories? In reality, literature is far more expansive than that. The Public Relations Team of the Faculty of Humanities at Diponegoro University (FIB Undip) had the opportunity to engage in an exclusive interview with Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, S.S., M.Hum., Head of the Indonesian Literature Study Program at FIB Undip. He shared his expertise in literature as a cultural study, offering insights into its connection to culture and the career opportunities available to its graduates.
Literature: Imagination Rooted in Reality
According to Dr. Sukarjo, literature is both fictional and imaginative, yet it remains deeply rooted in reality. In other words, while literature is often considered a product of imagination, it is actually inspired by real-life experiences.
“Literature often serves as a medium for expressing various ideas, including social criticism, while maintaining a safe space due to its fictional and imaginative nature,” he explained.
Today, literature is no longer confined to written works such as novels, poetry, or short stories. It has evolved into films, advertisements, comics, and even memes. In essence, literature is an art form that utilizes language as its medium, continuously adapting to the times.
Literature and Culture: An Inseparable Bond
Literature is inseparable from culture. Every literary work produced within a society reflects that society’s mindset, values, and way of life.
“Literature that develops in Java will naturally be influenced by Javanese perspectives, just as literature from Arab, Japan, or other countries carries the unique characteristics of their respective cultures,” Dr. Sukarjo explained.
Beyond being a form of expression, literature also serves educational and reflective functions. In academic circles, the concept of Dulce et Utile a French term meaning “literature should be both instructive and beneficial” is widely recognized. Moreover, literature has a cathartic function, helping readers navigate emotions and understand the complexities of life through characters and narratives.
Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, S.S., M.Hum.
Kaprodi Sastra Indonesia FIB Undip.
What Can Literature Graduates Do?
One of the most common questions is: What career opportunities are available for literature graduates? According to Dr. Sukarjo, literature is not just an art form; it is a versatile field with broad career prospects.
Graduates of Indonesian Literature can pursue careers in various fields, including:
1. Media and Creative Industries
- Journalist
- Screenwriter for films, advertisements, or digital content
- Copywriter and content writer
2. Academia and Research
- Lecturer or teacher
- Literary and cultural researcher
- Analyst of humanitarian issues
3. Literary Practitioners
- Novelist
- Poet
- Director and scriptwriter
4. Politicians and Public Officials
With strong language skills and deep cultural understanding, literature graduates can become insightful and communicative politicians.
“Indonesian Literature graduates have numerous opportunities. What’s crucial is that they continue honing their creativity, cultural awareness, and language skills to stay competitive in the professional world,” Dr. Sukarjo emphasized.
Full Support from the Dean of FIB Undip
This study on literature and culture has received full support from the Dean of FIB Undip, Prof. Dr. Alamsyah, M.Hum. He emphasized that understanding literature is not only essential for Indonesian Literature students but also for the general public.
“Literature is not just entertainment; it is also a tool for understanding life and developing critical and creative thinking. This field of study is highly beneficial for the future of FIB Undip students, particularly in facing global challenges across various industries,” he stated.
With its vast insights and promising career prospects, studying literature is far from a narrow choice. Instead, literature serves as a gateway to endless possibilities.