Thread: The Bali Paradox

Roy,
Sounds as though the book makes for compulsive reading. I will get a copy.

The themes of "Change & Continuity", as I am sure you are aware, are recognised components of Development Studies.

I first lived and worked in Bali back in the 1970's, and like you, have seen a lot of changes, but also a lot that has not changed. Long may it continue.

Mat, do you mind if I call you “Mat” for short? The book can be found in most all book stores in Bali, even at Ngurah Rai airport. But, if in a hurry to read it, check the web. I found this one very quickly, even with my deplorably slow modem speed:

http://dogbert.abebooks.com/servlet/Boo ... =295757230

Chris, the book is indeed mandatory reading. Given your early experience in Bali, viz, the 70’s, I am sure it will be a “cannot put down” until a finished read.

Speaking for myself, but making the assumption I could easily find others to agree, your insights and memories of your “Bali life” would make for extremely insightful reading on this forum. I know only one continuing expat who can date himself to that time, my good friend, Victor Mason. There are others, of course, but I know Victor, and his insights, taken from his life then, and now, are quite revealing, and always enjoyable, if not outright, entertaining.

Very nice to “have you aboard” Chris…very nice indeed.

Roy,

I met Victor Mason years ago, is he still in Bali?

Oh yea, and still going as strong as a kentut dari babi! He's re-published some of his early Bali fables, illustrated by our mutual friend Mokoh, and continues with his bird walks.

As Bali remains Bali, Victor remains Victor.

That's good to hear. Strong as a "kentut dari babi", what an exquisite turn of phrase you have.

I'm digressing from the topic, but I will be back in Bali over xmas / new year. I feel a beer coming on.

I met Victor as part of a crowd, so he won't remember me. He was, and I am sure still is, a very amusing man.

I would love to run into him again. I seem to remember he lived in Ubud.
He was a character, and on the times I met him, he always had an audience. He used to hold court.

Mats it is. No offense implied with Mat...as my late "brother" who was quite a well known character here in Bali was named Mathew, and of course always called Matt. Guess I was figuring Matt for the male gender, and Mat for the female. He wouldn't let anyone step on him anymore than I expect you would...but, Mats it is.

Beers it is Chris, if that's your "poison." You are welcomed to ring me up...(0361) 974445...when you get settled in. I'll contact Victor, and we'll let the day determine the outcome. I'm sure Sir Victor will be very happy, and enjoy re-convening court.

Mats / Roy

I will think of some "publishable" stories from those days.

Roy, your on. I will call you when I get back to Bali.

Chris, I honestly look forward to it, just as I do your continuing posts. Just one thing though, when I answer the phone, please be sure to tell me who you are and why you're calling. My phone number has been left on too many Bali mandi walls. :shock: :D