Embracing mother tongue, one book at a time: Reading clubs seek connection to culture
Across Singapore, small groups are gathering not to discuss bestsellers or the latest thrillers, but to nurture a connection to their mother tongue languages through literature. These reading clubs, though modest in size, represent a determined effort to promote bilingualism and strengthen cultural ties.
A Quiet Movement for Language and Culture
On a recent Sunday evening at Woodlands Regional Library, approximately 20 people convened to discuss The Goddess In The Living Room, a Tamil book by Singaporean author K. Kanagalatha. The session offered a unique opportunity for participants to share their perspectives directly with Ms. Latha, the author herself. This direct engagement exemplifies the core mission of these groups: fostering a deeper appreciation for local writers and their work.
The Maya Literary Circle, founded in 2019 by Rama Suresh, 47, focuses specifically on showcasing Singaporean Tamil writers. Another example is the Taxi Shifu and Friends book club, established two decades ago as a social outlet for taxi drivers and their acquaintances. While membership numbers are often limited, these clubs have carved out distinct niches within Singapore’s literary landscape.
Attracting younger members presents a significant challenge for many of these clubs. Sadhana Suresh, 18, the daughter of Maya Literary Circle’s founder, is the only regular young participant, primarily assisting with online publicity. While she appreciates her mother’s efforts, she admits to reading English books more frequently.
The Generational Divide
This sentiment is echoed by Priya Rajiv, 44, a Tamil Literature graduate, who finds intellectual stimulation in the book club sessions but has been unable to encourage her teenage and young adult children to participate. Her experience highlights a common hurdle: a preference for English literature among younger generations.
Xin Zhi Reading Club, one of Singapore’s oldest Chinese-language groups, founded in 1997, has responded by introducing parent-child lessons on classical Chinese texts in an attempt to broaden its appeal. The club, with approximately 180 members aged 50 to 70, also organizes calligraphy classes, ukulele workshops, and community service projects.
Taxi Shifu and Friends, catering to a slightly different demographic, meets six times a year at Ang Mo Kio Library and focuses on local Chinese titles. Some sessions have drawn as many as 100 attendees, demonstrating a continued interest in this format.
Looking Ahead
The NLB is actively supporting these initiatives, co-curating programs, providing meeting spaces, and collaborating with clubs on events like World Book Day. Newer clubs, such as the Chinese-language Youth Readers Club and the Starry Rain Book House, are specifically designed to engage younger readers.
However, broader societal trends, including the increasing prevalence of English as the primary language spoken at home – as indicated by the 2020 Census of Population – pose ongoing challenges. Adapting to changing reading habits, such as a preference for digital content, may be crucial for future success. It is possible that clubs will increasingly utilize social media and hybrid events to reach wider audiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of these reading clubs?
The primary goal is to encourage bilingualism and foster deeper ties to local culture through the promotion of mother tongue languages.
What challenges do these clubs face?
The main challenge is attracting younger members, as many prefer to read English books and engage with English-language content.
How is the National Library Board supporting these clubs?
The NLB supports these clubs by co-curating programs, providing spaces for meetings, and collaborating on events.
As Singapore continues to evolve, will these community-led initiatives be able to sustain interest in mother tongue languages and literature for future generations?