The Blue Danube Interlocutions: Bilingual Poems

“Mangasi Sihombing came from far away, yet he talks about Duna and to Duna through the thoughts of one who knows her very well. He lends his reader historical perspectives and invites poetry enthusiasts to read his mind with a hint of today’s mystery. His elevated mind, in the center of which stands River Duna. The Blue Danube, which has inspired so many poets, writers and composers. For Mangasi Sihombing – whether he should live in Jakarta or Budapest – the River means Duna. Duna with its majestic waves, his eternal love.” (Szilveszter Bus, the Hungarian Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia). “When theology is simply considered as a tool to interpret, explain and to deeply exploring with knowledge on faith and on faith life, then poems is really a beautiful and effective means in doing theology. Therefore these poems of Pak Sihombing are also seen as expression of eagerness and willingness as well as his concern to unfold his theological conviction….” (Dr. Lazarus H. Purwanto, emeritus pastor, Indonesian Christian Church or Gereja Kristen Indonesia [GKI]; lecturer, Jakarta Theological Seminary).