Literary works express thoughts in written form that can be used to express the facts of human life and the various problems they face artistically and imaginatively, which can have a positive effect on human life. Literary works usually have beautiful language and are well structured so that they can make an impression on their readers’ hearts. This is also shown in the novel ‘Mawar Hitam Tanpa Akar (Black Rose Without Roots)’ written by a female writer born in Jayapura named Aprila Wayar. Based on several sources, Aprila Wayar is mentioned as the first Papuan female novelist in the 2000s. This novel was first printed in 2009.
Enjoying a literary work is a step that can sharpen the reader's analytical mind. Through the language and storyline presented, the reader's delicate heartstrings are touched, and next, their emotions begin to be moved. This novel is presented simply but it can convey a very deep message about what actually happened. Through its 194 pages, readers can read it in a few moments, and be fulfilled with a complete understanding of the storyline. Divided into VI chapters, the novel provides the point of view of each character, namely Anna, Tom, Michael, and Sari, thereby helping readers to understand more easily the story that the author is trying to tell.
Having background of political dynamics and riots that occurred in Papua, the novel also depicts the romance among the story characters which is spiced up with infidelity. Using backgrounds of several cities in Papua, Java, Sulawesi, and even abroad, gives understanding that the story characters have broad relationships and insight which can make the readers feel that this story is theirs, especially for the readers from the places mentioned.
Patrick Valdano Sarwom, a communications student of Village Development Institute, the speaker of the novel, was able to spark the thought of participants who attended the discussion of the novel ‘Mawar Hitam Tanpa Akar’, at the Stube HEMAT Yogyakarta secretariat (Friday, 07/05/2024). Human rights violations in Papua such as rape incidents of Papuan women, and violences to solve problems done by the security forces are highlighted in this novel review and discussion. The Papuan’s longing for peace, prosperity, and balanced justice continues to surge among groups sounding for an independent Papua. Without taking sides with any group, the novel can voice justice for Papua implicitly. The students' opinions lead to the idea that progress in the existing infrastructure development does not mean abandoning human development which is the main goal of development actually. Building the people is what Papua needs. ***
