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"A Luxury We Must Afford"

In 1968, founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew told a room of University of Singapore students, "poetry is a luxury we cannot afford". 

It's an attitude that has unfortunately persisted past its context; in many ways the country's perception of poetry isn't so different from what it was decades ago.

Still, it's moments and situations in which we have to confront the unknown, and the uncertain, when poetry can offer us solace. So here's a compilation of local poets, and anthologies we might turn to. Learn more in this blog post.

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Dreaming Cities - Thryft
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Eddie Tay | Math Paper Press

Dreaming Cities

$5.91

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$5.91

Out of stock

"Dreaming Cities" offers a unique blend of poetry and street photography, presenting a vivid depiction of the modern city landscape of Hong Kong and Singapore. As a long-time resident and associate professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Eddie Tay brings an insightful perspective to the imagery and language. The poems in this collection are both imaginative and grounded in reality, and would be an ideal read for anyone interested in the urban space and the creative intersections between poetry and photography.
Caterwaul - Thryft
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Jennifer Anne Champion | Math Paper Press

Caterwaul

$6.97

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$6.97

Out of stock

Caterwaul would appeal to someone looking for an emotionally resonant coming-of-age story. Champion's memoir, presented in scrapbook form, interlaces the poignant with the mundane as she recounts the pain and desire of a poorly poet in middle-class Singaporean suburbia. Readers looking for an authentic, unflinching account of growing up will find it in Caterwaul.
Footnotes on Falling - Thryft
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Joshua Ip | Math Paper Press

Footnotes on Falling

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$8.90

Out of stock

If you've ever found yourself reflecting on your less-than-perfect decisions with a blend of humor and pensiveness, "Footnotes on Falling" could strike a chord. Joshua Ip craftily spins the awkward dance of life's missteps into verse, offering you a space to consider your own journey with a smile. The collection's self-awareness and cultural nuances might just echo your own internal monologues, making it a companion for moments of solitary contemplation.
Call And Response: A Migrant/Local Poetry Anthology - Thryft
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Rolinda Onates Espanola, Zakir Hossain Khokan, Joshua Ip  | Math Paper Press

Call And Response: A Migrant/Local Poetry Anthology

$7.62

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$7.62

Out of stock

Call and Response could be a great read for poetry enthusiasts seeking to explore the experiences of migrant and local poets. The anthology captures a diverse range of voices, with each poem being a unique prism of language that reflects and refracts the experiences of migrant workers and local residents. The creative responses from local writers add an interesting dimension to the work, creating a dialogic space where perspectives are shared and reflected upon. Overall, the book is a beautiful exploration of identity, migration, and the power of language to bridge worlds.
Finders & Keepers - Thryft
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Adam Tie | Landmark Books Pte Ltd

Finders & Keepers

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.67

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Out of stock

"Finders & Keepers" could be a great read for poetry lovers who appreciate the art of weaving words and emotions together to capture a person's essence. The book offers a unique blend of personalized poems based on three words given by strangers, creating a sense of intimacy and connection. The author's ability to tap into universal human experiences through spilled ink makes this book an enjoyable and relatable read.
Singathology : 50 New Works by Celebrated Singaporean Writers - Thryft
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Sa’eda Bte Buang, Gwee Li Sui, Tan Chee Lay  | Marshall Cavendish Editions

Singathology : 50 New Works by Celebrated Singaporean Writers

$15.65

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$15.65

68% off est. retail

Out of stock

Singathology showcases the richness and diversity of Singaporean literature, featuring pieces from acclaimed artists like Cultural Medallion and Young Artist award winners. The unique inclusion of mother tongue languages provides an immersive experience for readers, while English translations allow for wider accessibility. Edited by literary expert Dr Gwee Li Sui, this two-volume anthology is a must-read for those looking to discover and appreciate Singaporean literature.