"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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For the End Comes Reaching
David Wong Hsien Ming | Math Paper Press

For the End Comes Reaching

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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David Wong's collection dives deep into the tender complexities of human existence. If you're drawn to reflective poetry that grapples with the heavy tapestry of loss and the transformation it can inspire, "For The End Comes Reaching" might resonate with you. Its interwoven themes of love, violence, guilt, and faith will offer a cathartic journey through grief and a search for meaning.
Professions
Amanda Chong | Math Paper Press

Professions

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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Professions can be a good read for people who enjoy poetry with a touch of melancholy. Amanda Chong's collection captures the nuances of relationships tainted by professional demands, and the resulting heartbreak. The poems are relatable, yet unique in their observations. The glimpses of strong relationships amidst the heartaches make the book even more poignant. Overall, it is a beautiful collection of poetry that can resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of relationships.
Pantomime
Crispin Rodrigues | Math Paper Press

Pantomime

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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If you've ever felt like you're on a stage, playing roles dictated by society, "Pantomime" will resonate deeply with you. Crispin Rodrigues' poetry offers a haven away from these prescribed parts, inviting you into a contemplative walk. It's a slim volume that packs an introspective punch, perfect for anyone looking to find solace in words and question the roles we're all asked to play.
Keeping Skeletons
Tan Lixin | Math Paper Press

Keeping Skeletons

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Goodreads rating: 3.55

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"Keeping Skeletons" resonates with the rebel in you who cherishes dreams despite restraints. Blending the fight to be oneself with the struggle against exterior forces, this book can ignite your inner fire. Its brevity ensures a poignant, thought-provoking experience. If you're looking to be inspired in under a hundred pages, this might just be the spark you need.
Call and Response: A Migrant/Local Poetry Anthology
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.
Occupational Hazards
Mayo Martin | Math Paper Press

Occupational Hazards

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Goodreads rating: 2.43

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If you're drawn to the lighter side of poetry with a twist of humor and oddity, "Occupational Hazards" might be just your style. Mayo Martin crafts each piece with a blend of wit and depth that keeps you amused while contemplating the eccentricities that define us. It's a book for those who appreciate poetry that doesn't take itself too seriously, yet still resonates with the profound quirks of human nature.
Love Is an Empty Barstool
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Pooja Nansi | Math Paper Press

Love Is an Empty Barstool

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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If your heart's ever been on the edge of breaking, or if it's ever been broken, Pooja Nansi's "Love is an Empty Barstool" might just resonate with your soul. It's a collection that's as complex and nuanced as your favorite single malt, offering a chance to reflect during those quiet twilight moments. This is not just a book of poems; it's a companion for the heart in need of understanding and solace.
Tender Delirium
Tania De Rozario | Math Paper Press

Tender Delirium

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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This book could be a good read for you if you're looking for a collection of poetry and prose that fearlessly explores themes of love, longing, and societal norms. Tania De Rozario's Tender Delirium is a powerful and honest expression of queer desire, told through a confessional and often dark lens. With a mix of intensity and humor, this collection will captivate you and challenge your perception of what is considered "proper" subject matter in literature. It is a celebration of love and a rebellion against societal expectations, beautifully crafted by a talented writer.
Roadkill for Beginners
Just Arrived

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Roadkill for Beginners could be a good read for poetry lovers who enjoy unconventional themes and styles. Chan's poetry collection is a mix of love letters to places, field guides, and adventures, exploring various complex themes such as desire, moving, and belonging with a unique lyrical style. The poems feel like a celebration of life and its quirks, and readers could enjoy the vivid imagery and the raw emotions conveyed in the collection.