The phrase "Sekali Lagi" acts as a recurring motif throughout the text, representing a refusal to surrender to apathy. In the essay, Gie confronts the fatigue that comes with idealism. He acknowledges the harsh reality: that the world is often unjust, that political leaders frequently lie, and that the masses can be manipulated.
Ironically, some leftist academics criticize Gie for not being radical enough—for dying before the 1970s student movements could mature, and for focusing more on morality than on class struggle. Soe Hok Gie Sekali Lagi.pdf
However, unlike many of his contemporaries who either succumbed to despair or sold out their principles for political gain, Gie uses these observations as fuel. The "Once Again" in his title refers to the act of rising up—not necessarily in physical protest, but in moral resistance. It is a call to cleanse one's soul of bitterness. The phrase "Sekali Lagi" acts as a recurring
Contemporary Indonesian students invoke Gie during demonstrations against the Omnibus Law, military dominance, and environmental destruction. His famous quote—“Seorang demonstrant tidak usah merasa dirinya pahlawan, karena dia hanyalah pemberani kelas dua.” (A demonstrator need not feel like a hero, for he is only a second-class brave person.)—still circulates on Twitter and Instagram. Ironically, some leftist academics criticize Gie for not