Phra Aphai Mani the magic flute player
Phra Aphai Mani is a Thai poem, widely regarded as the masterpiece of its author, Sunthorn Phu (1786–1855), often called "the Bard of Rattanakosin." Composed over 22 years, from approximately 1822 to 1844, it stands as one of Thailand’s longest single poems, containing around 48,700 lines. The work was written during the Rattanakosin period (the current era of Thai history), which followed the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. This historical poem is significant as Sunthorn Phu, unlike many contemporary authors who adapted older, well-known tales, created a completely original narrative, reflecting a shift in Thai literature. Some literary critics suggest the epic, with its inclusion of European-descended characters, mercenaries, and pirates, subtly addresses the increasing Western influence and the challenges of colonialism in Southeast Asia during the 19th century.
The epic narrates the life and adventures of Phra Aphai Mani, a prince of the fictional kingdom of Rattana. His name itself is meaningful, translating to the "Jewel of Forgiveness" (Aphai means forgiveness, Mani means jewel).
Phra Aphai Mani and his younger brother, Sri Suwan, are sent by their father to seek knowledge. While Sri Suwan masters the traditional martial art of cudgel fighting (or sword fighting), Phra Aphai Mani chooses the unconventional path of mastering the art of the pi (a Thai flute). This choice, initially seen as unbefitting for a future king, highlights a central theme: the power of music and art over brute force. Phra Aphai Mani's flute is magical; its melody can either lull people and creatures to sleep or even kill them.
Disappointed with their choices, the king banishes his sons. This sets Phra Aphai Mani on his journey.
Nang Phisuea Samut (The Sea Ogress): While separated from his brother, Phra Aphai Mani is captured by a sea ogress, named Nang Phisuea Samut, who can magically disguise herself as a beautiful woman. She takes him to her cave, and despite knowing her true form, he lives with her for years and fathers a son, Sin Samut. Eventually, Phra Aphai Mani escapes with his son, aided by a mermaid, a moment where his flute is crucial, using its power to put the ogress to sleep. The enraged ogress pursues them but is eventually defeated.
Suwannamali (The Mermaid and the Princess): Phra Aphai Mani is rescued by the mermaid, who later bears him another son, Sud Sakhorn. He later marries Princess Suwannamali of the kingdom of Phaluek.
Princess Laweng (The Western Princess): A major section of the epic involves conflicts with the European inspired island kingdom of Lanka, ruled by Princess Laweng. The conflict is eventually resolved not through total war, but through the hero's wisdom and ultimately, forgiveness. Princess Laweng later becomes another of Phra Aphai Mani's consorts.
The tale is a vast romantic-fantasy epic, filled with mythical creatures, pirates, magic, and cross-cultural encounters. Key themes that distinguish it from other Thai classics of the time include:
Forgiveness and Non-Violence: Phra Aphai Mani often uses his flute to avoid bloodshed and shows compassion, notably forgiving captured enemies. The ending sees him eventually renounce his worldly power to become a hermit, preaching peace and non-attachment.
The Value of Specialized Knowledge: The hero’s specialised skill in music, initially scorned, proves more valuable than traditional bravery. This promotes the idea that practical and unique education is superior to general knowledge for navigating a complex world.
Multiculturalism: The poem notably features characters from diverse backgrounds, including European-inspired figures (like Princess Laweng and her Western-style mercenaries) and various non-human mythical beings.
Phra Aphai Mani is revered in Thailand as a foundational work of literature, influencing art, theatre, and popular culture, and remains studied for its narrative breadth and moral depth. The poem has close ties with Buddhism, particularly its emphasis on peace, non-violence (ahimsa), and forgiveness
