Phyllis Ghim-Lian Chew
There have been numerous studies on Singapore's history, culture, and education, but few have focused specifically on the relationship between national identity and "islandness." This paper examines how islandness and identity are inextricably intertwined and manifested in sociopolitical attitudes andlanguage behavior. Since metaphors are ourprimary means of conceptualizing the worid, an analysis of the metaphors of Singapore, äs used by its leaders, over thepast decade, willgive us a greater understanding of the sudden emergence of this phenomenal nation-state, an Island whose political, economic, and social significance far exceeds its size.