Introduction [to Singaporean literature in English: a critical reader]

Edited book (chapter)

Wicks, Peter. 2002. "Introduction [to Singaporean literature in English: a critical reader]." Quayum, Mohammed A. and Wicks, Peter (ed.) Singaporean literature in English: a critical reader. Serdang, Malaysia. Universiti Putra Malaysia Press. pp. xi-xiii
Chapter Title

Introduction [to Singaporean literature in English: a critical reader]

Book Chapter CategoryEdited book (chapter)
Book TitleSingaporean literature in English: a critical reader
Authors
AuthorWicks, Peter
EditorsQuayum, Mohammed A. and Wicks, Peter
Page Rangexi-xiii
Number of Pages3
Year2002
PublisherUniversiti Putra Malaysia Press
Place of PublicationSerdang, Malaysia
ISBN9832373506
Abstract

Singaporean Literature in English is plentiful, vibrant and diverse, reflecting the central role of the English language in the public discourse of the country. Although
English is but one of four official languages in Singapore, and not even the national language, in practice it is the predominant linguistic medium in a city-state
aggressively committed to modernisation, globalisation, and social integration. English is the medium of instruction at primary and secondary schools and at
Singapore's three universities, and the main language of civil administration. For Singapore's political elite, English serves as Singapore's 'working language', as
well as an essential bridge between the majority of the population who are ethnically Chinese and the numerically significant Malay and Indian minorities. Thus no
communal language is privileged in the country or forced upon the other linguistic groups that comprise the population.

KeywordsSingaporean literature, Singapore
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020470529. South-East Asian literature (excl. Indonesian)
Public Notes

Author holds copyright.

Byline AffiliationsSchool of Humanities and Communication
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