TY - JOUR AU - Sui, Singapore, Gwee Li PY - 2013/06/15 Y2 - 2024/03/29 TI - Understanding Edwin Thumboo JF - Asiatic: IIUM Journal of English Language and Literature JA - AJELL VL - 7 IS - 2 SE - Articles on Edwin Thumboo DO - 10.31436/asiatic.v7i2.374 UR - https://journals.iium.edu.my/asiatic/index.php/ajell/article/view/374 SP - 158-172 AB - <p>Edwin Thumboo is arguably the most famous and powerful figure in Singaporean literature. He is also the most controversial, generating a broad range of responses to the meaning and value of his verse. Thumboo’s poetry parallels not just the stages of his life but problematically also how Singapore has developed socio-politically. These inextricable aspects create the very possibility for conflicting readings, which essentially disagree over historical decisions, the role of art and the impact of Thumboo’s career and character.</p><p>     My essay will look at the construction of the image of Thumboo and its relation to these differing outlooks. I shall consider the dimensions of his historical place, his artistic convictions, his status in literary and academic culture and his own personality. A different way of working with Thumboo – without using him to frame Singaporean literature – is also proposed. My wish is to be able to confront objectively where this major poet’s legacy stands today. </p><p> </p> ER -