Quote by Goenawan Mohamad: “Art makes us human. It reminds us of our fragility, our capacity for grace.”

This quote highlights art's fundamental role in defining humanity, showing us both our delicate nature and our ability to achieve beauty and elegance, thereby deepening our self-awareness and empathy. It suggests art connects us to our deepest selves.

Mohamad continued to write extensively on aesthetics and culture, emphasizing art's crucial role in fostering empathy and understanding in society. In a period of rapid change, he argued for art's enduring value in connecting people to their shared humanity.

Indonesian poet, essayist, and intellectual, born in Batang in 1941 and the founder and longtime editor of the cultural magazine Tempo. One of the most important public intellectuals in modern Indonesia, his Catatan Pinggir columns and poetry combined aesthetic refinement with political courage.