From Wilted Flower

First published in 1947 in the weekly Kampuchea, Wilted Flower (Phka Srapon) remains one of the most widely read and influential pieces of modern literature in Khmer. Appearing in book form in 1959, it was incorporated into the official high school curriculum in 1969 and is still taught today. Within a tradition of Khmer literature as social critique, Nou Hach became one of the early Khmer writers to experiment with the novel form. Set in Battambang province, the story follows the journey of two young people on the cusp of adulthood. What sets it apart from other love stories of the period is the attention Nou Hach gives to the female protagonist. While the author endows Vitheavy with the outward virtues of a traditional Khmer woman, his portrayal lays bare her inner turmoil. The first two chapters, translated here, showcase his elegant and engaging style. vr