Abstract
This paper discusses selected poems by three generations of Malay writers in Singapore from the first generation poets who received their vernicular education during British colonial period, before Malayan Independence in 1957; to second generation writers who received Malay education when Singapore was part of Malaysia, 1957-1965 who established their poems in 1970s; and the third generation writers who received bilingual education who began to make impacts when Singapore become a Republic in 1980s. These iconic poems embody the easthetic as well as the cultural and political values of Malay society. It is an early attempt to define and search for canon of Singapore Malay poetry. Keywords: literature, canon, poetry, Singapore, culture, identity, values
Highlights
I was asked by one of English literature professor to identify a few Malay poems written by Singapore Malay poets which can be regarded as canon
This has led me to reflect on the notions of literary canon and development of Malay poetry
Malay poetry written by the citizens of Singapore, of independent nation since 1965, is relatively young in age, of about 45 year olds
Summary
I was asked by one of English literature professor to identify a few Malay poems written by Singapore Malay poets which can be regarded as canon. The poet reflects on her position as an individual from a minority community and small country, Singapore, who would make an impactful contribution internationally, and at the same time strongly upholds her religious belief: Bagaimana dan bila manusia seperti aku dari bangsa kerdil di tengah negara kecil akan lebih bererti dan disedari di peta dunia dapat mengukir sebuah bekas di jalanan sejarah menggantung sebutir kejora di dada cakerawala sambil mengecap keredhaan Allah!
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