Biografi

Biografi, or biography, is a nonfiction narrative about a real person’s life written by someone other than the subject. It traces origins, experiences, works, and influence, presenting factual information and interpretation in a coherent narrative. The term biografi is used in Indonesian and Malay; in English the form is called biography.

Biographies aim to provide accurate, balanced portrayals. Writers use primary sources such as letters, diaries, interviews, official records, and the subject’s published works, along with secondary sources like histories and prior biographies, to corroborate details. They may present a straightforward chronology or a thematic analysis that situates the person within their historical and social context.

Forms and structure vary. Biographies can be concise overviews or full scholarly studies. They are often organized chronologically or thematically and typically cover early life, education, career, major achievements, personal life, and legacy. A critical biography may examine biases, motives, and the subject’s influence within their field or era.

Relation to other life-writing. Autobiographies and memoirs are written by the subjects themselves, while biografi analyze someone else’s life. Some works blend fact with interpretation or dramatization, such as biographical novels or films, but reputable biographies distinguish clearly between documented facts and narrative interpretation.

Impact and ethics. Biographies inform education and public understanding, preserve cultural memory, and support historical research. Ethical biographers strive for accuracy, transparent sourcing, and fair treatment of sensitive information.

Notable examples include classic works like James Boswell’s Life of Samuel Johnson and modern biographies such as Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson.