Merari Siregar

Azab Dan Sengsara Merari Siregar Indonesian edition

Azab dan Sengsara ( Pain and Suffering ) is a 1920 novel written by Merari Siregar and published by Balai Pustaka, Indonesia's major publisher at that time. It tells the story of two lovers, Amiruddin and Mariamin, who are unable to marry and eventually become miserable. It is generally considered the first modern Indonesian novel. Azab dan Sengsara was written by Merari Siregar to "show the traditions and habits which are less than desirable amongst [Batak] people, especially the men." The novel was based on the author's personal experiences, with modifications for clarity.