IB thaI gUest sPeakeR

Khun Chart Korbjitti was named a National Artist in Literature in 2004 and he won the SEA Write Award in 1982 for his book Khamphiphaksa (The Judgement) which has been translated into six languages including English, Chinese, Japanese, Malay, German and French. Year 13 students used this book for their IB Thai exam. Therefore, it was an honour to welcome him as a guest speaker at Bangkok Patana to enrich the literature knowledge of our senior students. Some students reflections are included below.

“I enjoyed the way he presented different topics – talking about serious topics in a light-hearted and comedic way to make it more interesting. He would explain his method of talking about present issues under the guise of art to make it more presentable and acceptable yet still getting the message across.” Napat Yantasanakij, 13L

“I like how we got to learn the motivation behind why he wrote the book (he felt wrong that he judged another author too easily), as that is not something we can infer from simply reading it. I also enjoyed how he told us about the setting used in the story (his hometown and his own school) as it showed me how authors get their inspiration for writing. I also enjoyed how he talked about everything in a straightforward manner without sugar-coating his words.” Dol Manoleehakul, 13P

“I found the talk to be very insightful and interesting for both our studies relating to the literary text and in applying his advice to our personal values. I am most intrigued by books I am able to draw comparisons to societal context with as the characters and lessons are reflective of our lifestyle and people around us. Therefore, being able to learn more about the book itself but also the writer’s own intentions with the book was an immensely valuable experience.” Preeyanan

(Pam) Jirarungroj, 13D