พระจันทร์ สี เลือด: สมบัติแห่งความเดือดร้อนและระบำใจ

Introduction

“พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” (Phra Chan Son Luad) is a popular Thai novel written by Sanya Pholprasit which was first published in 1967. It quickly became a national bestseller and has since become a classic of modern Thai literature. The novel has been adapted into several movies, television dramas, and stage productions.

With its captivating storyline and complex characters, “พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” explores the dark and violent underbelly of Thai society during the mid-20th century. The tale is a gripping portrayal of the turbulent and often brutal political and social changes that occurred in Thailand during this period. This article will delve into the elements that make this novel so compelling and enduring.

Synopsis

“พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” tells the story of Chart Korbjitti, a young man who is caught between two worlds. His father is a Thai aristocrat, while his mother is a Chinese immigrant. Growing up, Chart struggles to reconcile his mixed heritage while navigating the dangers of a society riddled with corruption and violence.

As he grows older, Chart becomes increasingly disillusioned with the injustices he sees around him. He becomes involved in the communist movement, which is violently suppressed by the government. Chart is arrested and tortured, but he refuses to renounce his beliefs.

The novel also explores Chart’s relationships with the women in his life. He falls in love with Mayura, a beautiful and headstrong woman who is also involved in the communist movement. However, their relationship is doomed from the start due to the forces working against them. Chart also has a tumultuous relationship with his half-sister, Riam, who is selfish and manipulative.

Throughout the book, the characters’ lives become increasingly entangled as they struggle to survive in a society where violence, corruption, and betrayal are all too common. The novel ends on a tragic note, leaving the reader with a sense of the futility of Chart’s struggle for justice.

Themes and Symbolism

“พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” is a rich and complex novel that explores many themes, including:

1. Identity: Chart’s mixed heritage is a constant source of tension for him throughout the book, and it reflects the wider struggle that many Thais faced in trying to navigate the complex social and political landscape of their country.

2. Injustice: The novel highlights the many forms of injustice that pervaded Thai society at the time, from corruption to the abuse of power to the suppression of dissent.

3. Love and Betrayal: The romantic relationships in the novel are all marked by betrayal and broken trust, reflecting the wider social turmoil that threatens to tear Thai society apart.

4. Violence and Redemption: Ultimately, the book is a commentary on the cyclical nature of violence and how difficult it is to break free from the cycle of vengeance and retribution.

The title of the book, “พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” is a powerful metaphor that symbolizes the struggle of the character and the wider Thai society. The phrase “chan son luad” (blood-red moon) was a popular expression used to describe a lunar eclipse, which was seen as a bad omen. The metaphor suggests that the blood-red moon represents the corruption and violence that pervades Thai society, and that Chart’s struggle is an attempt to break free from this cycle of destruction.

FAQs

Q: What is the historical context of “พระจันทร์ สี เลือด”?

A: The novel is set in the mid-20th century when Thailand was undergoing significant social and political changes. The country was transitioning from a feudal society to a modern nation-state, and this period was marked by a great deal of turmoil and violence.

Q: Is the book still relevant today?

A: Yes, the book’s themes of corruption, social injustice, and political violence remain relevant to this day. The novel is still widely read in Thailand, and it continues to resonate with readers who are grappling with the challenges of building a just and equitable society.

Q: How has the book been received outside of Thailand?

A: “พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” has been translated into several languages and has received critical acclaim in many countries. It is widely regarded as one of the most important works of modern Thai literature.

Conclusion

“พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” is a timeless masterpiece of Thai literature that continues to captivate readers to this day. With its rich and complex characters, gripping storyline, and powerful symbolism, the novel is a potent commentary on the struggle for justice and the cyclical nature of violence. Whether you are a fan of Thai literature or simply looking for a compelling read, “พระจันทร์ สี เลือด” is a must-read.