QUEER-SUBALTERN; THE AMBIGUITY OF THE CHARACTER IDENTITY NAI KAI FLORESTAN IN THE NOVEL “NAI KAI” BY JOSS WIBISONO

Abstract

The novel “Nai Kai” by Joss Wibisono explores the ambiguity of identity in Indonesian literature, particularly within the scope of gender studies and post-colonialism. The character Nai Kai Florestan’s deliberately ambiguous gender identity challenges traditional notions and encourages a more inclusive understanding of gender as a spectrum. The narrative critiques colonial and patriarchal structures that sought to define and control identities, advocating for the recognition and acceptance of diverse and complex identities. Nai Kai’s journey, marked by slavery and his rise to fame as a Baroque opera singer, highlights the intersection of colonialism and queer identities. The novel’s portrayal of Nai Kai’s identity as fluid and multifaceted reflects broader themes of resistance and resilience, critiquing colonial narratives and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable understanding of identity. The analysis employed a qualitative descriptive method, involving intensive reading of the novel to identify relevant text excerpts. The collected data was analyzed using content analysis techniques, interpreting and classifying the data in line with the research questions and goals. The study aims to analyze the representation of the subaltern as a form of resistance against colonialism through narrative strategies employed by the author, Joss Wibisono. It investigates the phase of identity formation in the quest for self-definition and offers insights into the broader ideological and cultural implications of these themes, helping readers appreciate the nuanced interplay between identity ambiguity and colonial legacies within Indonesian literature.