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

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.