Secangkir Kopi Pahit

(title translation: A Cup of Bitter Coffee)

Togar, a student from North Sumatra, is expected by his parents to graduate. Because his talent is in journalism, Togar fails and becomes a labourer in a cement factory. With the assistance of Buyung, Togar begins writing for a newspaper and then quits his job in the cement factory. While working in the factory, Togar has a relationship with Lola, a widow with three children. As a journalistic assignment, Togar wants to cover the story of Karsih, a girl who was trapped when she was about to find work in Jakarta. Unfortunately for Togar, he is arrested after being accused of helping Karsih to run off. While he is in prison, a heavily pregnant Lola shows up. Togar accepts Lola as his wife but is ashamed to return home to his village. The feeling is gone when he has to go home after his father passes away. Apparently, his village is not as despicable as he thought. Lola and her children are accepted into the clan. But the happiness doesn’t last long. There is an accident when Togar drives the speedboat too fast. Lola cannot swim and is drowned in Lake Toba, leaving Togar more depressed.