Goena-Goena: Oorspronkelijke roman

by P. A. (Paul Adriaan) Daum

"Goena-Goena: Oorspronkelijke roman" by P. A. Daum is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Charles Prédier and his aspirations to make his fortune through a coffee plantation. The narrative explores themes of ambition, socioeconomic dynamics in colonial Indonesia, and personal relationships within a colonial context. The opening of the novel introduces Charles Prédier, who has just secured an investment for his coffee venture with notary Bronkhorst. The narrative establishes a contrast between Prédier's determination and Bronkhorst's cautious optimism about financial prospects. As Prédier dreams of a prosperous future, the notary reflects on the changing landscape of colonial life, marked by new opportunities and challenges. We are introduced to Bronkhorst's domestic life, including his wife Marie's disinterest in his business endeavors, hinting at tensions between personal desires and societal expectations in the colonial setting. The stage is set for conflicts that may arise as the intertwining fates of the characters unfold.