I just finished reading his autobiography - 'Kisah Hidup Seniman Agung'.

And I felt I just had to post this entry about my thoughts.

We know him generally of the many films he acted and directed. We also might still be humming to songs which he composed now. We will probably know him as the man who raised the name 'Studio Jalan Ampas'.

But after reading the book, I found that he was much more than that. He was a man of integrity, a man who isn't reluctant to help others in need. And, I found out, he was an Aries. The author, who was a good friend of Allaryarham, mentioned many characteristics of his which were truly typical of Ariens. I felt there were many events and traits of his described in the book that I could relate to. One being, a true 'anak seni' is very difficult to fathom and understood by others. Having said that, they will constantly need channels to release their many ideas, be it through media or writing. Not to mention, he was in it largely because of passion, and not because of the wealth and fame, though he got the latter unconsciously.

And did you know that the term 'pawagam' was invented by him, short for 'panggung wayang gambar'? I bet there are other words that he contributed to Kamus Dewan as well.

I can't possibly mention everything in the book here, only to sum it up, after reading the book, I felt that I knew him better, I knew his thoughts and his motives behind his movies clearer. In all, he is truly one amazing man of art beyond any description.

I'm gonna get that 'Semerah Padi' vcd ...

And she waves goodbye...

10:25 am