Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION
SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF CALOOCAN CITY
AMPARO HIGH SCHOOL
# 95 MARANG ST. AMPARO SUBD. CALOOCAN CITY

Name : Paran, Jianne Russ Marie V. and Rada, Russel A.

WRITTEN REPORT
(ASIAN LITERATURE SINGAPOREAN)

Inroduction
The rich tapestry of Singaporean literature unfolds through the diverse expressions of its writers in English,
Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Early contributors such as Tan Swie Hian and Kuo Pao Kun set the stage,
showcasing the unique ability of some writers to navigate multiple linguistic realms.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, poets like Simon Tay, Leong Liew Geok, Koh Buck Song, Heng Siok Tian,
and Ho Poh Fun brought dynamic energy to the literary scene. The late 1990s witnessed a renaissance in
English poetry, with a new generation born around or after 1965 emerging as prolific voices, not only within
Singapore but resonating internationally. This cohort, marked by political awareness and a cosmopolitan
outlook, offered intensely personal perspectives on Singaporean life.

The post-1965 era, coinciding with Singapore's independence, ushered in a literary wave led by luminaries like
Edwin Thumboo, Arthur Yap, Robert Yeo, Goh Poh Seng, Lee Tzu Pheng, and Chandran Nair. Poetry became
the dominant form of expression, establishing a small but dedicated following since independence.

Drama found its voice in English through figures like Goh Poh Seng, a notable poet and novelist, Robert Yeo, a
prolific playwright, and Kuo Pao Kun, a vital force in the local theatre renaissance of the 1980s and 1990s.

Fiction writing in English gained momentum post-independence, with short stories flourishing before the novel
took its place in the literary landscape. Pioneer Goh Poh Seng, with works like "If We Dream Too Long"
(1972), is celebrated as the harbinger of the first true Singaporean novel, paving the way for subsequent
generations to delve into the nuanced exploration of Singapore's multifaceted identity.

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In summary, Singaporean literature, intricately woven across languages and genres, reflects the evolving
narratives of a nation in transition. From the pioneering voices that emerged post-independence to the
contemporary poets and novelists navigating global themes, the literary landscape of Singapore continues to
evolve, each generation contributing to the vibrant tapestry of its cultural expression.

The literature of Singapore comprises a collection of literary works by Singaporeans in any of the country's
four main languages: English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil. A number of Singaporean writers such as Tan Swie
Hian and Kuo Pao Kun have contributed work in more than one language.

Singaporean Poetry:
Singaporean poetry, a genre that transcends linguistic boundaries, encapsulates the diverse emotions and
cultural nuances of the nation. One prominent figure in Singaporean poetry is Edwin Thumboo, often hailed as
the "pioneer of Singaporean poetry." His seminal work, "Ulysses by the Merlion," is a poetic exploration of
Singapore's journey from a colonial past to a post-independent present. Thumboo's poems weave together
intricate threads of history, identity, and the ever-changing urban landscape.
Contemporary poets like Alfian Sa'at contribute to the poetic landscape with works such as "A History of
Amnesia." Sa'at's poetry reflects the social and political consciousness of modern Singapore, addressing issues
like censorship, LGBTQ+ rights, and the complex interplay between memory and identity.

Singaporean Drama:
Singaporean drama, deeply rooted in multiculturalism, grapples with societal issues, identity, and the human
condition. Kuo Pao Kun, a trailblazer in Singaporean theatre, has left an indelible mark with plays like "The
Coffin is Too Big for the Hole." This work, written in English, is a powerful commentary on bureaucracy and
the individual's struggle against societal norms.
Emerging playwrights like Joel Tan contribute to the contemporary drama scene with works such as "Tango."
Tan's play explores themes of love, relationships, and societal expectations, providing a fresh perspective on the
complexities of modern Singaporean life. The use of both English and Singlish (Singaporean English) in his
dialogue adds authenticity to the portrayal of local culture.

Singaporean Fiction:
Singaporean fiction, expressed in the written word, paints intricate portraits of characters navigating the
complexities of a rapidly evolving society. One of the notable figures in Singaporean fiction is Daren Shiau,
known for works like "Heartland." His novel delves into the lives of characters in a public housing estate,
providing a glimpse into the heart of everyday Singaporean life and the challenges faced by its residents.
Catherine Lim, celebrated for her contribution to various literary genres, extends her influence into fiction with
novels like "The Woman's Book of Superlatives." Lim's fiction often explores the role of women in society,
shedding light on issues of gender dynamics and societal expectations.
In the realm of speculative fiction, the works of writers like J.Y. Yang, with the "Tensorate" series, add a unique
flavor to Singaporean fiction. This series, blending fantasy and science fiction, creates a rich tapestry that draws
on Asian mythologies and explores themes of power, identity, and rebellion.

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In conclusion, Singaporean literature, across poetry, drama, and fiction, is a dynamic and evolving tapestry. It
reflects the voices of a nation navigating its history, cultural diversity, and the challenges of the contemporary
world. The works of these writers contribute not only to the literary heritage of Singapore but also provide a
global audience with insights into the multifaceted nature of this vibrant nation.

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