IN SEARCH OF MODERN IDENTITY: YENG PWAY NGON, CHIA HWEE PENG AND CHINESE SINGAPOREAN POETRY

This paper explores the topic concerning cultural identity and self-identity expressed by Yeng Pway Ngon and Chia Hwee Peng, two leading figures of Chinese Singaporean poetry. By employing textual analysis, contextualisation and theoretical intervention, this paper is an attempt to examine how they come to terms with the questions of modernity, globalisation, and identity politics, and furthermore, to re-evaluate the cultural implications they may bring about while addressing these issues. In view of the critical role played by Yeng and Chia in the emergence of literary locality, the paper seeks to open a dialogue, a critical inquiry on the focuses of Chinese Singaporean literature.