Saneh Sangsuk (Thai: เสน่ห์ สังข์สุข) is an internationally known, award-winning Thai author who wrote White Shadow (2001) and the short story Venom (2001). In 2008, he received the Ordre des Arts et Lettres Medal from the French Ministry of Culture for his contributions to literature. His works have been translated into 7 different languages including English, German, French and Spanish. His book White Shadow is considered one of the best 20 novels in Thailand. Currently, he lives in Phetchaburi, Thailand, and uses the penname Dan-arun Saengthong in his published work.
Career
Born in 1957, he majored in English as a college student. In addition to writing, Sangsuk has had several jobs in his career. At one time, he worked for USAID (The United States Agency for National Development). He also worked in advertising and was a translator for a Thai publisher.
Writing
Sangsuk started writing short stories in college. He was inspired by both Thai and international authors including Oscar Wilde, Rapinthoranarhot Thagul, Juan Ramon Jimenez, Franz Kafka, and James Joyce. Sangsuk cites Ulysses as one of the main reasons he was inspired to write.
His first published work was Funeral Song (Thai: เพลงศพ) which appeared in a local weekly. Since then, he has had many of his work published. He was recognized and awarded a notable short story prize by a local publisher for his short story Desolate Field (Thai: ทุ่งร้าง).
In between jobs and during free time, he started writing White Shadow. The work was first published in 1986. The work had little impact for the Thai audience. However, it was well-received by the international audience. Eventually, the book was translated into 7 different languages. His books are available worldwide, particularly in Europe.
Awards
- Desolate Field won notable short story prize from local Thai publisher
- White Shadow (2001) recognized as 1 of 20 best novels in Thailand by literary critic Marcel Barang
- White Shadow (2001) received the 2008 Ordre des Arts et Lettres Medal from the French Ministry of Culture.
References
- Interview in Thai by Roysancha, May 2007[1]
- Biography in Thai by Kawee, May 2007, [2]
- Thai Writer wins Award from France by Anchalee Kongrut, Bangkok Post, 9 November 2008, [3]
- English Menu for Thai literature, Marcel Barang [4]