Realitas Sosial dalam Antologi Cerpen Kita Susah Tidur Sejak Dilahirkan Karya Aksan Taqwin Embe

Abstract

This study aims to describe the forms of social reality represented in literary works, particularly in the short story anthology We Have Trouble Sleeping Since We Were Born by Aksan Taqwin Embe. Literary works are viewed as reflections of social life that function not only as entertainment but also as media for representing various social phenomena and conveying social criticism. The study employs a qualitative descriptive method using Abrams' mimetic literary criticism approach, which emphasizes the relationship between literary works and the realities of society. The data source consists of the short story anthology, while data were collected through reading, observation, and note-taking techniques. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, interpretation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal various forms of social reality reflected in the stories, including economic inequality, social conflict, injustice, psychological conditions, and the struggles of individuals in confronting changing social circumstances. These forms of social reality demonstrate the close relationship between literary texts and the realities of community life that inspire their creation. The study concludes that the anthology serves as a representation of contemporary social conditions while encouraging readers to develop empathy, critical awareness, and a deeper understanding of the social issues portrayed through literary expression.