Sing Lit Poems on SMRT: A Journey Through Singapore’s Literary Landscape

In a groundbreaking initiative, Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system has transformed into a vibrant showcase of local literature, featuring Sing Lit poems across its trains. This project, titled “Poems on the MRT,” launched on November 1, 2024, aims to bring poetry into the daily lives of commuters, making literature accessible and engaging. Produced by the National Arts Council (NAC) in partnership with SMRT Trains and the literary non-profit organisation Sing Lit Station (SLS), this initiative highlights the rich tapestry of Singapore’s literary heritage.

The Concept Behind Poems on the MRT

“Poems on the MRT” is designed to inspire a greater appreciation for Singaporean literature by spotlighting over 100 poems from a diverse array of local poets. The initiative features excerpts from poems in all four official languages of Singapore: English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. By doing so, it not only showcases the literary talent within Singapore but also reflects the multicultural fabric of the nation.

The selection process for the featured poems was meticulous. Curators sifted through more than 1,000 submissions to curate a collection that includes works from both established poets and emerging voices. This ensures a rich representation of styles and themes that resonate with various demographics.

Engaging Commuters with Multilingual Poetry

One of the unique aspects of this initiative is its commitment to multilingualism. Each poem is displayed alongside its English translation, allowing non-native speakers to appreciate the beauty and nuance of the original works. Notable translators such as Alfian Sa’at and Shelly Bryant have contributed their expertise to ensure that the translations maintain the essence of the original poetry while being accessible to a wider audience.

Commuters can find these poems displayed prominently within trains on the East-West, North-South, and Circle Lines. Additionally, QR codes accompany each poem, enabling passengers to scan and read the full texts online. This interactive element encourages engagement and allows readers to delve deeper into Singapore’s literary landscape.

A Moving Library: The Experience Inside Trains

The initiative effectively transforms SMRT trains into a “moving library,” where commuters can immerse themselves in literature during their daily travels. The poems are designed to offer moments of beauty, reflection, and contemplation amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. As Fiona Chan, Chair and Station Director of SLS, aptly stated, “Poetry has the power to transport its readers beyond the everyday.” By embedding these literary works in MRT journeys, Sing Lit Station aims to elevate daily commutes and showcase Singapore’s rich literary landscape in bite-sized passages.

In addition to printed poems, passengers can also enjoy animated videos created by local artists that celebrate poetry and reading culture. These videos will be displayed on screens within trains and at stations, further enhancing the literary experience for commuters.

The Role of Technology in Promoting Literature

The integration of technology plays a significant role in this initiative. Commuters can easily access full versions of poems through their smartphones by scanning QR codes located next to each poem panel. This tech-savvy approach aligns with contemporary reading habits and makes literature more accessible than ever before.

Moreover, during the campaign launch period from November 1 to December 31, 2024, members of the public are invited to participate in a Poems on the MRT Bingo Competition. Participants can download a bingo card from NAC’s website or Sing Lit Station’s social media pages. By photographing specific poems that fit various categories on the card and submitting their entries online, participants stand a chance to win prizes such as Kobo readers preloaded with Sing Lit titles. This gamification aspect adds an exciting layer to engaging with poetry while encouraging commuters to explore different works throughout their journeys.

Celebrating Local Poets

The featured poets represent a cross-section of Singapore’s literary community. From Cultural Medallion recipients to Young Artist Award winners and emerging writers, their works capture diverse perspectives that reflect life in Singapore. Poems like Edwin Thumboo’s “I want to taste sharp the petai” and Hamid Roslan’s “I mistake marmalade for kaya” resonate with local experiences while inviting readers to connect with their cultural identity.

By highlighting these poets and their works in public spaces like MRT trains, “Poems on the MRT” serves as an important platform for promoting local literature. It encourages commuters to explore poetry that speaks directly to their experiences as Singaporeans.

The Impact on Commuters

The impact of this initiative extends beyond mere exposure to poetry; it fosters a deeper connection between commuters and their cultural heritage. As passengers encounter these literary pieces during their travels, they are prompted to reflect on their surroundings and experiences in new ways. Poetry has a unique ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought—qualities that can enrich even mundane activities like commuting.

The initiative also aims to combat the perception that poetry is inaccessible or elitist by presenting it in everyday contexts. By integrating poetry into public transport systems—a space frequented by people from all walks of life—this project democratises access to literature and invites everyone to engage with it.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

“Poems on the MRT” is more than just an artistic initiative; it represents a significant step towards integrating literature into everyday life in Singapore. By bringing Sing Lit poems onto SMRT trains, this project fosters a deeper connection between commuters and local literature while encouraging them to explore their cultural heritage.

As this initiative unfolds over its two-year duration until October 30, 2025, it promises not only to enhance commuting experiences but also to inspire future generations of writers and readers alike. Whether you are an avid poetry lover or someone who has never engaged with verse before, there is something for everyone in this unique celebration of Singaporean literature.

Next time you board an SMRT train, take a moment to look around—you might just discover your next favourite poem waiting for you amidst your commute. With every journey taken alongside these words, commuters will find themselves enriched by stories that reflect their lives and culture in profound ways.