First published in Indonesian in 2000, followed by this 2006 English edition in lyrical prose, Toeti Heraty, professor of philosophy at the University of Indonesia, retells the ancient story of the witch Calon Arang from 12th century Balinese and Javanese folklore. Inspired by the work of photographer Rio Helmi who described Calon Arang as an old woman in sorrow, Heraty's version asks the question: 'Do you know what it means to be a widow, what it means to be old?' Written at a time of massive changes in Indonesia, when gender roles and the disproportionate power of men were being questioned, Calong Arang explores the injustices inflicted upon women by relating the old story to the realities of modern society. This English edition is beautifully illustrated with cover art by Sri Haryani and paintings to accompany each poem by various Indonesian artists, curated for this edition by Sarita Newson.