Glimpses of Light 侧影之心

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侧 影 之 心

Glimpses of light 1


Copyright © 2017 The Very Quiet Studio Limited www.theveryquietstudio.asia All rights reserved Published by The Very Quiet Studio Limited in 2017 The Very Quiet Studio Non-Profit Organization ACRA registration no. 201631481G Address: 141 Cecil Street #10-01 Tung Ann Association Email: theveryquietstudio@gmail.com 1st Edition 2017 ISBN(s) Disclaimer Cover Illustration Copyright © 2015 by The Very Quiet Studio Limited 3


Foreword

The Very Quiet Studio "Older but Wiser" is the first community projected initiated by

The Very Quiet Studio in January 2014 to raise awareness on our mind as we age. With the collaboration of Analog Film Lab, we had 11 photographers who took to the streets and photographed our local street elderly using analog technology : Film. An English forum "Elderly Happiness and Dignity" was held at NLB in conjunction with the launch of the 1st Season "Older but Wiser" Photography Exhibition. TVQS extended the work with later Chinese Forums 老不沉重 2015, 老不得空 and English Forum "Space for our mental Wellbeing" 2017. We had our 3 rd exhibition held at Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

The “Older but Wiser” theme happens due to the concern over accelerated growth in the city and transformation of lifestyle at breakneck speed. The endeavour to bring attention to this is perhaps called an advocacy about mind health to deepen awareness, in the present day term. It is by no intent to dissuade progress nor provoke social dissent, but hopes to bring people through arts and cultural wisdom, to reflect and pace. The gentle reminder with open discussion over what each person can do for themselves, to take care on how they mind their minds, above their personal welfare demands and daily grinds. Artistic collaborators grew from 11 photographers to 17 writers to 20 artists and 8 more performing artists, cushioned with a small group of volunteer-friends. With their support and shared vision, we are motivated to expand this topic further and beyond. The “Older but Wiser” theme about our mental health hopes to rise to greater heights so that we may all improve on our state of mind, a little better, before we all have to go home one day.

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I Forums

目 录 Content

English Forum 2014 Elderly Happiness & Dignity National Library Central Basement

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中文座谈会 2015 « 老不沉重 » The Enlightened Older Person 新加坡全国肾脏基金会绍氏礼堂

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English Forum 2017 Space for our Mental Well-being NKF Auditorium

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中文座谈会 2017 «老不得空» Always so Bo-Eng (busy) 新加坡全国肾脏基金会绍氏礼堂

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II Older but Wiser Exhibitions 1st Season Exhibition National Library Central 2nd Season Exhibition Artists' Sharing The Foothills Fort Canning Park Galeri Utama & Galeri Nila 3rd Season Exhibition

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Tan Tock Seng Hospital Atrium

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III Photographs and Paintings

目 录 Content

Photo

Huang Wei Hsuan “Grandfather’s Clock”

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Photo

Tiah Ling “Grandpa Chop Chop”

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Photo Goi Wang Firn “Ah Gong Watching Over” Painting Sng Bee Bee Oil 18 x 18”

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Painting Belinda Low Acrylic 18 x 24”

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Photo

Goi Wang Firn “Ah Gong Watching Over”

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Painting

Iffah Haziyah Binte Ismail Chinese Ink 11.7 x 8.3”

Photo

Goi Wang Firn “Ah Gong Watching Over”

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Painting Grace Lee Yeng Ling Oil 20 x 24”

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Photo

Simon Tay “Cardboard Woman”

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Photo

Nicholas Choy “Daily Exercise”, “Moving House”

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Photo

Simon Tay “I Will Take Care of You”

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Photo

Low Cheng Qwee “Umbrella”

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Photo

Nicholas Choy “Outstanding Banana Woman” (Sold)

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Photo

Ng Wei Chin “Comfort Food”, “Feast”

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Photo

Huang Wei Hsuan “Not For Homeless”

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Painting Eva Tagt Acrylic 9.5 x 13” Photo

Valence Sim “Elderly Delinquent”

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Photo

Tiah Ling “Bored”

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Photo

Valence Sim “Wrinkled Man”

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Photo

Patrick Tung “Cleaner Lady”

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Photo

Simon Tay “Tissue Please?”

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Painting Sara Caspani Acrylic 24 x 16”

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Photo

Simon Tay “Happy Together”

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Photo

Valence Sim “Magnifying Glass Auntie”

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Photo

Patrick Tung “Lke a Boss (Or Lost?)”

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Painting Nicole Fabry Oil 18 x 14”

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III Photographs and Paintings

目 录 Content

Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “Light Please!” Painting Melissa Tan Water Colour 8.3 x 11.7”

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Painting Queenie Kou Oil 24 x 30”

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Photo

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Ng Wei Chin ”Kopi Kaki- Coffee Friends”

Painting Koh Kai Ting Water Colour 42 x 55cm Zaheera Hashim Oil on Wood 24 x 24” Photo

Patrick Tung “Patient and Patience”

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Painting Angeline Chai Oil 18 x 24”

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Photo

Joey Lu “Roadside Ah Pek”

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Photo

Joey Lu “Rochor Progress Eviction”

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Photo Joey Lu “Cat Uncle” Painting Georgina Fong Pencil Charcoal Pastel A3

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Photo

Ng Wei Chin “Always Building Up”

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Photo

Valence Sim “Watching You Grow”

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Photo

Ngai Mun Hong “Chinese Chess”

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Photo

Nicholas Choy “Checkmate” Nicholas Choy “Hanging Cages” (Sold)

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Photo Simon Tay "Tender Bars" Painting Yap Wen Shan Oil 18 x 24"

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Photo Simon Tay “Fortune No Telling” Painting Suriana Tan Soft Pastel 70 x 40cm

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Photo Simon Tay “Huat Ah!” Painting Nicole Fabry Oil 24 x 18”

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Painting Suriana Tan Soft Pastel 70 x 40cm

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Photo

Low Cheng Qwee “Exercise”

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Painting

Zack Tan Ziyang Oil 14 x 18”

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Chris Underwood Oil 18 x 24” Photo

Valence Sim “Making Faces”

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Photo

Ngai Mun Hong “Street Painter”

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III Photographs and Paintings

目 录 Content

Photo

Patrick Tung “Recycling”

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Photo

Huang Wei Hsuan “Too Late to Pawn”

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Painting

Iffah Haziyah Binte Ismail Chinese Ink 11.7 x 8.3”

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Photo Painting

Nicholas Choy “Take Me!” Evon Low Acrylic 24 x 20”

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Photo

Patrick Tung “Recycle and Carriage Part 1”

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Painting Suriana Tan Soft Pastel 70 x 40cm

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Photo Painting

Patrick Tung “Recycle and Carriage Part 2” Melissa Tan Water Colour 11.7 x 8.3”

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Photo

Nicholas Choy “Older Harry Potter”

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Photo

Patrick Tung “Dying Craft”

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Photo

Tiah Ling “Joining In”

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Photo Simon Tay “Polly’s Kettle” Painting Nancy Loh "Simon's Kettle" Oil 11 x 14” (Sold)

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Painting Le Matt "Kopi Siew Dai" Oil 18 x 24” (Sold)

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Photo

Ng Wei Chin “Old Place Stranger”

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Photo

Huang Wei Hsuan “My Transport”

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Photo

Ngai Mun Hong “Open Arms”

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Photo

Ngai Mun Hong “Queensway Cinema”

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Photo

Huang Wei Hsuan “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” “Ending to Begin?”

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Photo

Huang Wei Hsuan “Going Somewhere?”

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IV Poetries and Proses

目 录 Content

(In mother tongues followed by translations)

English Dr William Wan Nostalgia

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T. Rajagopal Aging and Living a Fulfilling Life

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Yohanna Abdullah Five Foot Ways

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Chinese 吴韦材 «盔甲» (Armour)

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吴韦材 «尊严» (Dignity)

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蓉子 «这把伞» (The Umbrella)

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蓉子 « 清洁大地的鸿图 » (A Great Plan to Clean the Earth )

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冯焕好 «手推车» (Cart)

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钟袁见 «阿伯与钟» (Ah Pek and the Clock)

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孔祥乐 «旧戏院» (The Truth About the Lotus Pond)

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洪孟珠博士 «下棋» (A Game of Chess)

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杜珠成 « 亲情» (Affections)

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杜珠成 «慧眼» (Discerning Eyes)

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何乃强医生 «留守岗位» (Remaining at One’s Post)

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Malay Nadiputra Almahdi Wayang (Stage Show)

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Nadiputra Almahdi Trishaw (Trishaw Ride)

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Mokther HJ Hashim Demi Sesuap Nasi (For a Mouthful of Rice)

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Mokther HJ Hashim Perjalanan (Journey)

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IV Poetries and Proses

目 录 Content

(In mother tongues followed by translations)

Tamil

KTM Iqbal 121 நைரெவளிச்சம்​் (Grey Light) KTM Iqbal நம் விருப்பம் (Our Desire)

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R SathiKannan சித்திரக்கவிைத (Painting of Poetry)

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R SathiKannan நீள ்கிறது வாழ்க்ைக இதமாக (Gently Rolls the Life...)

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Krishnamurthi Mathangi ேபரிளம் ெபண்ணுருத்தி புகிட் ெகாம்பாக்கில் (The Elderly Young Lady in Bukit Gombak)

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Vairavan Ramanathan ைசனா டவுன் படிக்கட்டுகள் (Chinatown Steps)

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Vairavan Ramanathan தனித்து நிற்கும் வாைழப்பழ மூதாட்டி (Lonely Banana Woman)

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Pichinikkadu Elango கூண்டுப்பறைவ நான் (Myself a Bird in Cages)

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Pichinikkadu Elango காத்திருக்கிேறன் (Waiting)

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V Bios Writers

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Photographers

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Translators

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Shelly Bryant Chinese to English translation Chew Lin Lin Malay to English Jayanthi Shankar Tamil to English

With Appreciation 10


Forums

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English Forum Elderly Happiness & Dignity National Library Central Basement

26 January 2014

Dr William Wan, Secretary, Singapore Kindness Movement CLICK TO LISTEN

“

Reject stereotypes of seniors...... eg. Silver Tsunami... Being kind being older is not disastrous at all. We have much to contribute to the world from the wisdom we got from decades of experience. We are a blessing not a disaster.... Collectively if we forge our own path of contribution..

�

we may find ourselves a tad happier, our lives a tad more purposeful and a whole lot more dignified.

Dr. William Wan, General Secretary, Singapore Kindness Movement. 12


Sri Ghanavenothan Retnam, Music Director, Bhasker’s Art Academy CLICK TO LISTEN

Music helps to relieve stress.. you can play Indian Raghas.. they are melodies. There are 72 main raghas... for 72 chakras or nervous points... Taking medication..Self played or performed, it helps to cure the maladies... in certain aspects. For stress relief Revati Ragha

For dementia Shivarejani Ragha

For happiness Mohanam Ragha

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中文座谈会 «老不沉重» The Enlighted Older Person 新加坡全国肾脏基金会绍氏礼堂

6 June 2015

Forum speakers CLICK TO WATCH

《不老歌》 九十岁的人到处是 八十不稀奇 我们有这种年龄能够把时 间用在年轻人身上, 投资在他们身上, 给他们指导,给他们

七十人生才开始 六十有什么了不起 五十还是少年人 四十真可爱

有一些榜样可以看到。

三十睡在摇篮里

我们虽然年纪比较大,

二十才出世

但我们的心永远不老。 袁国栋博士

CLICK TO LISTEN

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English Forum Space for our Mental Well-being NKF Auditorium 25 February 2017

CLICK TO WATCH

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中文座谈会 «老不得空» Always So Bo-Eng (busy) 新加坡全国肾脏基金会绍氏礼堂

25 February 2017

CLICK TO WATCH

CLICK TO WATCH

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Exhibitions

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1st Season Exhibition National Library Central with Analog Film Lab 26 January - 16 February 2014 “Elderly Happiness and Dignity” Forum is the first topic of discussion held at National Library Central 26 January 2014 as a launch to 1st season exhibition ”Older But Wiser “ A modest turnout, public members share similar concerns over Singapore mental well being, especially for the aged as we observe a rising number of elderly depression or social disenchantment as this city transforms rapidly.

Are there programs in place to help build identity of older people - instead of believing older is useless?

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2nd Season Exhibition Artists' Sharing

The Foothills Fort Canning Park Galeri Utama & Galeri Nila with My Art Space 5 December 2015 Launch

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3rd Season Exhibition Tan Tock Seng Hospital Atrium

18 - 24 February 2017

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Photographs and Paintings

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“钟” 是人类古老的伟大的发明之一, 虽然见证了人间万样故事,却没有 记忆, 也不会记录。不似人类的另两 项伟大发明-摄影和电影,可以抓 住时间、留下风貌。但是, “钟”的机 械运作绝对值得赞美和歌颂。 Extract from «阿伯与钟» by 钟袁见

The clock is one of humankind’s great inventions. Though it bears witness to humanity’s countless stories, it has no memory, and has no way of keeping a record. It is unlike humankind’s two other major inventions, the photograph and film, which capture time and leave behind a permanent record. Even so, the clock is absolutely a praiseworthy machine, and it enjoys an esteemed position in our midst. Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “Grandfather’s Clock” 23


亲 情 , 温 暖 了 人 生 。

Photo Tiah Ling “Grandpa Chop Chop” 24


就这样,长辈抚育幼辈,幼辈孝顺长辈, 使家庭生活充满和谐快乐。 亲情去除了辈分、贫富的距离。 亲情,千万年不变;亲情维系着 一代又一代的和谐关怀。 亲情,温暖了人生。 Extract from «亲情» by 杜珠成

It is in this way that the elders attend to the young and the young come to respect their elders. Family life is then full of harmony and joy. Affection can do away with the generation gap, just as it can help us bridge the wealth gap. Familial affection will never change. It holds us together in harmony and happiness from one generation to the next. Familial affection is the warmth of life.

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Photo Goi Wang Firn “Ah Gong Watching Over” Painting Sng Bee Bee Oil 18 x 18”

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Painting Belinda Low Acrylic 18 x 24� 27


Photo Goi Wang Firn “Ah Gong Watching Over” Painting Iffah Haziyah Binte Ismail Chinese Ink 11.7 x 8.3”

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Photo Goi Wang Firn “Ah Gong Watching Over” 29


Painting Grace Lee Yeng Ling Oil 20 x 24� 30


Madam Peh Kim Choo, Director of Hua Mei Centre for Successful Aging of the Tsao Foundation CLICK TO LISTEN

Photo Simon Tay “Cardboard Woman” 31


谁不想阖家欢聚,含饴弄孙? 为什么?我这双劳动了大半 辈子的手,仍需要劳动? 拾起堆积在小巷后、小店前的 垃圾桶旁的纸皮箱。拆开,折叠; 拾起、拆开、折叠。大的小的, 一并放在手推车上。这些纸皮用 来换取我的米粮和租房费。 这手推车也将把我 推向岁月的尽头,生命的终点。

Extract from «手推车» by 冯焕好 Who does not want to gather with his family spending his final days playing with his grandchildren? But do not these hands, toiling all their life, need yet to carry on their labour? I collect my goods from back alleys or pick up cartons from beside of the garbage bin in front of shops. I open them, deconstruct them, then refold them. Collect, deconstruct, refold – large, small, together in my cart. Just enough to pay my rent and supply my meals. This cart will carry me through my remaining days, all the way to the end of my life.

Photo Nicholas Choy (Top) “Daily Exercise” (Bottom) “Moving House” 32


இளைமயின் ெதளிந்த பார்ைவ முதுைமயில் இதயத்திற்கு இடம் மாறிவிடுகிறது பத்திரமாக நைர ெவளிச்சத்தில் இப்ேபாது நன்றாகத் ெதரிகிறது வாழ்க்ைகயின் பள்ளமும் ேமடும் Extract from நைரெவளிச்சம் (Grey Light) by KTM Iqbal

Carrying the bags of experiences The back has bent like a rainbow This colourful bow seems but faded cannot be broken with ease by anyone

Photo Simon Tay “I Will Take Care of You” 33


从年轻时候, 我就一心一意要撑开它, 形成我的天空 ... ... Extract from «这把伞» by 蓉子

From the time I was young I’ve tried wholeheartedly to get it open so that it could form my sky each day of each passing year

Photo Low Cheng Qwee “Umbrella” 34


Photo Nicholas Choy “Outstanding Banana Woman” (Sold) 35


நமக்ெகன்ன என்று விட்டுேபாய்விட்ட பிள்ைளகளிடம்​் ேபாய் ைகேயந்தி நிற்கவில்ைல. வயதாகிவிட்டேத என்று முடங்கிப் ேப்ாய்ச் சுருண்டு படுக்கவில்ைல. தன் வயிற்றுப்பாட்டுக்கான வருமானத்ைதத ் தாேன சம்பாரித்துக் ெகாள்ளும் சக்தி இன்னமும் அவளிடம் சுரந்துெகாண்ேட இருக்கிறது. அருகில் உள்ள தூணில் எழுதியிருக்கும் ‘அவுட் ஸ்ேடண்டிங் ெசாற்கள் கிழவிக்கும் ெ்பாருந்திப் ேபாகிறது Extract from தனித்து நிற்கும வாைழப்பழ மூதாட்டி (Lonely Banana Woman) by Vairavan Ramanathan

She never begged at the door steps of her children who irresponsibly abandoned her. She never lazes around coiled down in her bed just because she has aged. The strong desire to earn her meals is forever secreting in her. ‘Outstanding’ written on the pillar nearby suits well the granny.

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Photo Ng Wei Chin (Top) “Comfort Food” (Bottom) “Feast” 37


என்ைனக் கடந்து ே்பாகும் ே்பாது அைவ உங்களுக்குள்ளிருந்தும் மலரும் நிைனவுகளாக ெவளிப்படுவதுண்டா? Extract from ைசனா டவுன் படிக்கட்டுகள்​் (Chinatown Steps) by Vairavan Ramanathan While going up or down me, do they bloom from within?

Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “Not For Homeless” Painting Eva Tagt Acrylic 9.5 x 13”

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என்ன அப்படிப் பார்க்கிறீர்கள்! நான் தான் படிக்கட்டு ேபசுகிேறன்! என்ைன எத்தைன ஆயிரம் கால்கள் கடந்து ேபாயிருக்கும்? கணக்கு ைவக்கவில்ைல. அன்றாடம் பல்லாயிரம் ேபர்கைள ஏற்றியும் விடுகிேறன். இறக்கியும் விடுகிேறன். நான் ஓய்ெவடுப்பேத இல்ைல. ஆனால் என்மீது பலர் சற்று ேநரம் அமர்ந்து ஓய்ெவடுத்துச் ெசல்கிறார்கள். Extract from ைசனா டவுன் படிக்கட்டுகள்​் (Chinatown Steps) by Vairavan Ramanathan

Why do you look so surprised? I am the staircase speaking to you. Thousands of feet would have stepped on me. I have no count of them. I ascend and descend thousands of people. I never retire. But many sit on me to rest when they tire.

Photo Valence Sim “Elderly Delinquent” 39


My bed by night are fields Staircase landings I know from all my wanderings And five foot ways Singapore has less homeless I sleep Than most countries Or not Usually I’ll be the only one But I care not Selling on Sungei Road Me and my shadow What people think Meeting Cardboard ladies Digging into rubbish bins And drinks can men To eke a living And other karang guni folks Extract from Five Foot Ways by Yohanna Abdullah

Photo Tiah Ling “Bored” 40


Photo Valence Sim “Wrinkled Man” 41


这一身皮肤就是岁月磨出来的盔甲。 到了这境地,什么得失荣辱坎坷 已不再具有太大的意义,活着, 而且依然自信地活着,就是胜利。 这其实就是一尊美妙的塑像, 每一处细节,每一条筋络, 每一块老老实实的肌肉, 虽在黑白般尘世中,完整而立体, 彰显出坚持的价值。 Extract from «盔甲» by 吴韦材

吴韦材画家: “建设内心”

CLICK TO WATCH

This skin is what I have scraped out from the times. In such circumstance what is gained or lost? and what honour or disgrace is left? there is not much meaning here, in life and anyway, to live confidently is victory in fact, it is a beautiful statue each detail, each channel each honest muscle though it is in the black and white world it is still solid and complete showing me the value of persistence

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Photo Patrick Tung “Cleaner Lady” 43


歌曲: 《清洁大地的鸿图》

CLICK TO WATCH

悲哀不是我的个性, 水湿地滑, 跌倒了 也不等人来扶。 Extract from «清洁大地的鸿图» by 蓉子

It is not like me to be morose as slippery as water and when I fall, I do not wait for another’s hand to lift me

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Photo Simon Tay “Tissue Please?” 45


Painting Sara Caspani Acrylic 24 x 16� 46


முதுைமேய! நீ என்னுள் நுைழந்துவிட்டதாக அவர்கள் ேபசிக்ெகாள்கிறார்கள் பாவம் அவர்கள் ! அவர்களுக்ெகன்ன ெதரியவா ேபாகிறது? Extract from நீள்கிறது வாழ்க்ைக இதமாக (Gently Rolls the Life...) by R Sathikannan

Senility Rumours circulates that You have surreptiously filled my being Alas! I pity these gossip mongers. How can they ever know that you're but The epitome of time-mellowed sensitive heart! Do they know? That we are like the ever-living poetry ! Permanently youthful and revel in novelty?

Photo Simon Tay “Happy Together” 47


In the long river of time, everything develops and changes. If a thing is beautiful, our gaze lingers. 变 化 。是 美 好 的,就 多 看 几 眼; If it is ugly, we try to avoid it. As long as we look 是丑恶的,尽量回 避。只 要看 得 correctly and are not misled, we will not be easily 正 确 ,不 受 蒙 蔽 ,便 能 迎 向正 途 。 blinded, and we will come to the right path.

在时间的长河里,一切都在发展

在岁月的流动中,有的绚烂会趋向 平淡,有的鲜明会归于模糊。

In the flow of time, that which is brilliant can become faded, and that which is obvious can be obscured.

慧 眼 扫 除 了 一 切 的 迷 惘 与 障 碍, Discerning eyes remove all obstructions, seeing 把 一 切有 形 无 形 的 都 看 清 看 透 。 through to even the intangible realities. 这 个世界 到 底 是 变 化 多 端 的,慧 眼负起透视的任务。

This world is forever changeable. It is discerning eyes that bring us a clear perspective.

Extract from «慧眼» by 杜珠成

Photo Valence Sim “Magnifying Glass Auntie” 48


Dr Robin Chan, Senior Associate Director / Human Protections Administrator, Institutional Review Board National University of Singapore CLICK TO LISTEN

Photo Patrick Tung “Lke a Boss (Or Lost?)” 49


Painting Nicole Fabry Oil 18 x 14� 50


Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “Light Please!” Painting Melissa Tan Water Colour 8.3 x 11.7”

51


Painting Queenie Kou Oil 24 x 30� 52


Photo Ng Wei Chin ”Kopi Kaki- Coffee Friends” 53


Painting (Top) Koh Kai Ting Water Colour 42 x 55cm (Bottom) Zaheera Hashim Oil on Wood 24 x 24�

54


Photo Patrick Tung “Patient and Patience” 55


Dr Radiah Salim, Founder and President of Club Heal

CLICK TO LISTEN

...Elderly can bring out the best in us... see caregiving not as a burden...but caregivers need some support ..if we do that, our relationship with the elderly will only go uphill...

Painting Angeline Chai Oil 18 x 24� 56


அப்பட்டமாய் அைமதியாய் நிகழ்த ்துகிேறன் நிகழ்காலத்ைத.

I live the present blantantly silent

Was I like this before? No இப்படியா இருந்ேதன்? No இல்ைல In and out I was heavy இல்ைல with burden உள்ளும் ெவளியும் சுைமகளால் கனத்திருந்ேதன் I rejoiced with pleasures. சுகங்களால் களித்திருந்ேதன். இப்ேபாது ஆைடச்சுைமயில்ைல முதுைமதான் சுைம அந்தச்சுைமைய இறக்கிைவக்கத்தான் இப்படி அண்ணாந்துபார்க்கிேறன்​்.

Now the dresses are no more a burden but the dotage And only to renounce that burden I keep gazng at the sky. Time will help, thus I wait.

காலம்தான் ைகெகாடுக்கும் காத்திருக்கிேறன். Extract from காத்திருக்கிேறன் (Waiting) by Pichinikkadu Elango Photo Joey Lu “Roadside Ah Pek” 57


Perjalanan hidup pasti akan dilalui oleh setiap insan yang bernyawa di bumi ini.. Walau apa pun, lumrah perjalanan hidup manusia tiada siapa yang berani menduga. Pastinya perjalanan itu akan berhenti apabila sampai waktunya.. Extract from Perjalanan (Journey) by Mokther HJ Hashim

Every living soul on earth will have to pass through life’s journey.. Nevertheless, no one will dare predict the ordinary course of human lives. The only certainty is that the journey will end when its time has come..

Photo Joey Lu “Rochor Progress Eviction� 58


Photo Joey Lu “Cat Uncle” Painting Georgina Fong Pencil Charcoal Pastel A3

59


陈德威博士:“每五个老人当中,一个人有忧郁病。”

CLICK TO WATCH

Photo Ng Wei Chin “Always Building Up” 60


These steel-framed glass buildings rise up in front of me to touch the skies. They glitter against the noon sun; the reflection hurts my aging eyes. Extract from Nostalgia by Dr William Wan

Photo Valence Sim “Watching You Grow� 61


Photo (Top) Ngai Mun Hong “Chinese Chess” (Bottom) Nicholas Choy “Checkmate”

62


洪孟珠博士:“老年说话留心。”

CLICK TO WATCH

越长越老是本能,越长越成熟越有智 慧,则是一种选择。一般上智慧与年 龄 并 进 ,可 是有时年龄单独到 来 , 智 慧却缺席了 。要克服这种困 境 , 就得拥有健康的身体与良好的精神状 态。锻炼头脑是保持良好精神状态的 良方,若能与志趣相投的朋友一同锻 炼,效果会更理想,也更能持久。 照片中的乐龄人士,在下棋时都聚精 会神在棋盘上,乐在其中,并不在乎 下棋者是谁,围观者多寡。这证明只 要对眼前的事物满足,周围环境并不 重要。可见,下棋是训练乐龄人士面 对现状、扩大朋友圈的良好方法。

Growing old is mandatory, but becoming mature and wise is a conscious choice we make. Age and wisdom do not necessarily come hand in hand. To develop the latter, a healthy body and mind are paramount. The way to a healthy mind rests on regular exercise for the brain. What better way than to do that with like minded old friends? A game of chess brings together like minded people. This is where friendship can be forged between players and among onlookers. Chess is not just about pitting one’s wits against others, but more importantly, a catalyst for enlarging one’s social circle and for maintaining an active lifestyle in old age.

Extract from «下棋» by 洪孟珠博士

63


Photo Nicholas Choy “Hanging Cages” (Sold) 64


அவர்களுக்குநான் கடனாகிப்ேபாய்விட்ேடன் பறைவகளுக்குப் பணிெசய்வைத என்கடனாக்கிக்ெ காண் ே்டன் நான் தூங்கிவிட்டால் எழுப்புவது பறைவகள்தான் தூக்கம்வராதே்பாது ேநரத்ைதக்கழிப்ப து பறைவகேளாடுதான் உறவுகள் இல்லாமல் நானில்ைல பறைவகேளாடு இருப்பதால் என்வாழ்க்ைக உயிர்ப்ேபாடு இருக்கிறது. Extract from கூண்டுப்பறைவ நான் (Myself a Bird in Cages) by Pichinikkadu Elango

I dont exist without relationships. But I remain lively because I am with the birds.

65


Photo Simon Tay "Tender Bars" Painting Yap Wen Shan Oil 18 x 24"

66


Photo Simon Tay “Fortune No Telling” Painting Suriana Tan Soft Pastel 70 x 40cm

67


Photo Simon Tay “Huat Ah!” Painting Nicole Fabry Oil 24 x 18”

68


Painting Suriana Tan Soft Pastel 70 x 40cm 69


Photo Low Cheng Qwee “Exercise” 70


Painting (Top) Zack Tan Ziyang Oil 14 x 18” (Bottom) Chris Underwood Oil 18 x 24”

71


Photo Valence Sim “Making Faces” 72


Wayang adalah coretan kehidupan dalam apa juga pemaparannya. Ia mengungkap kejahilan masa silam dan ia juga mengungkap kebijaksanaan manusia dalam menempuh gelombang hidup yang belum diketahuinya walau sesaat dari langkah yang bakal diambilnya. Extract from Wayang (Stage Show) by Nadiputra Almahdi

It reveals the ignorance of the past and it also reveals the ingenuity of man in riding the waves of life without knowing for even a second the next step he will take.

73


அனுபவப் பயணதைத திரும்பிப்பார்க்கிேறன் கடந்து வந்த பாைதகளில் ெவளிச்சமும் இருளும் மாறி மாறி வந்து ேபாயிருக்கின்றன வழி ெநடுக இன்பமும் துன்பமும் அலங்கரித்திருக்கின்றன Extract from சித்திரக்கவிைத (Painting of Poetry) by R SathiKannan

I reminisce my journey of experience My trail is alternated with light and darkness Adorned with moments of happiness and sorrow Freezing cold and scorching sun have strengthened me Amongst my companions The faces of those who impacted me, are etched in my heart

Photo Ngai Mun Hong “Street Painter” 74


Photo Patrick Tung “Recycling” 75


Recital by Azman Shariff “Demi Sesuap Nasi� CLICK TO WATCH

Kepercayaan untuk terus hidup adalah matlamat dan tumpuan yang harus diberikan agar hidup tidak menjadi bebanan. Kata orang rezeki ada di mana-mana. Ia menunggu dengan setia. Samada kita ingin terus mencari atau berdiri tegak berasa puas sambil mendabik dada. Dalam erti kata yang lain..usaha dan terus berusaha demi mencari jalan penyelesaian menum paskan kemiskinan.

The belief to carry on living is the aim and should become a focus so that life does not become a burden. It is said one can make a living anywhere. It awaits steadfastly. Whether we wish to continue searching or to stand tall feeling satisfied as we thump our chests. In other words.. strive and continue striving to find a way out to overcome destitution.

Extract from Demi Sesuap Nasi (For a Mouthful of Rice) by Mokther HJ Hashim

76


let us learn to give and let us receive the blessings before we ascend to the next level as fond memories

Extract from Aging and Living a Fulfilling Life by T. Rajagopal

Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “Too Late to Pawn� 77


Painting Iffah Haziyah Binte Ismail Chinese Ink 11.7 x 8.3� 78


Photo Nicholas Choy “Take Me!” Painting Evon Low Acrylic 24 x 20”

79


Photo Patrick Tung “Recycle and Carriage Part 1” 80


ஆைமக் குளக்கைரயில் அமர்ந்திருக்கிறாள் அவேள கட்டி ைவத்த வந்தனமாைல வீடு திரும்புைகயில் அவைள வரேவற்கும் துன்னூசீ துன்னல்களால் ெபாங்கி வழியும் சாேராங்ைக ெதாட்டபடி அமர்ந்திருக்கின்றன அவள் நிதம் வளர்க்கும் குளிர்பான Extract from ேபரிளம் ெபண்ணுருத்தி புகிட் ெகாம்பாக்கில் (The Elderly Young Lady in Bukit Gombak) by Krishnamurthi Mathangi

With overwhelmed stitches her sarong touches the ear lending empty drink cans which she raises everyday

Painting Suriana Tan Soft Pastel 70 x 40cm 81


Photo Patrick Tung “Recycle and Carriage Part 2” Painting Melissa Tan Water Colour 11.7 x 8.3”

82


Photo Nicholas Choy “Older Harry Potter” 83


Photo Patrick Tung “Dying Craft” 84


他这一双灵巧的手,雕造出金烁烁 的 饰 物,养 活了 一 家大小,直至 垂垂 老 矣。随着先进技术的产生, 首 饰制造方法机械化。设计复杂, 款式百变。他已经被抛在时代后头,

陈锦祥朗读: 《留守岗位》

CLICK TO WATCH

只能做些简单的修补工作。

坐在打金枱前,敲 敲打打,补补修 修。日复日,年复 年,守着 这个岗 位,守着这将消逝的行业。 Extract from «留守岗位» by 何乃强医生 His lively hands carved bright, shining

ornaments, and he sold them to support his own family until his children were grown. As he grew older and advanced technology emerged, manufacturing in the field was mechanised and designs grew more complex, with limitless styles becoming more readily available. He had been left behind, and could now only do simple repair jobs. He sat at his table hammering and repairing. Day after day and year after year, he maintained this post, keeping the vanishing profession alive as he worked.

85


Photo Tiah Ling “Joining In” 86


假如不把拘楼病看作是病, 那么把它看成是 年龄老化的代价 或许会舒服些, 就算腰真的无法伸直了, 但志气,依然不屈。 Extract from «尊严» by 吴韦材

If you don’t see a hunched back as an ailment, but merely the price of ageing is it comforting? Though you can’t straighten your back to reach your ambition, you remain unyielding.

巫漪丽钢琴伴奏

CLICK TO WATCH

87


Photo Simon Tay “Polly’s Kettle” Painting Nancy Loh "Simon's Kettle" Oil 11 x 14” (Sold)

88


Painting Le Matt "Kopi Siew Dai" Oil 18 x 24� (Sold) 89


Photo Ng Wei Chin “Old Place Stranger” 90


Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “My Transport” 91


இருள் இளைமயின் நிறம்; முதுைம ெவள்ைளயடித்த ெவண்பா சாயம் ெவளுத்தாலும் மரியாைத ெபறுகிறது முதுைம முதுைம ெவற்றிதரும் பலவீனம்

Darkness the colour of youth But senescence a beautiful white sonnet 1 Devoid of colours but receives all due reverence Doddery life That gives the victory of frailty Decorating ourselves With old age is only Our wish

முதுைமயால் அலங்கரிக்கப ் படுவேத Extract from நம் விருப்பம் (Our Desire) by KTM Iqbal

The original poem has the word Venba (ெவண்பா) is a form of classical Tamil poetry.

1

Photo Ngai Mun Hong “Open Arms” 92


世间总离不了诞生成长、繁盛、 衰退和入灭这些现象, 过分执着长驻或抗拒某种阶段, 都是痛苦及不切实际的! Extract from «旧戏院» by 孔祥乐

黄卫众医生: “养老的五个重点。”

CLICK TO WATCH

The world cannot escape the phenomenon of birth, flourishing, deterioration, and destruction. Those who are obsessed and try to hold on, defying the season, will only face pain and suffering, as a result of their impossible desire.

Photo Ngai Mun Hong “Queensway Cinema” 93


Photo Huang Wei Hsuan (Top) “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” (Bottom) “Ending to Begin?” 94


Recital by Azman Shariff “Trishaw� CLICK TO WATCH

Justru, roda kehidupan berputar, berputar dan terus berputar, tidak kira siapa yang mengayuhnya, tidak kira siapa yang menerajuinya. Extract from Trishaw (Trishaw Ride) by Nadiputra Almahdi

Thus, the wheel of life turns, turns and keeps turning, no matter who rides it, no matter who helms it.

95


Photo Huang Wei Hsuan “Going Somewhere?” 96


Poetries and Proses

97


It feels like it was only yesterday when we played on the fields filled with cow-grass and “touch-me-nots”.

Nostalgia

Dr William Wan

We played barefooted on an uneven plane of patchy grass and pondings, one right in front of the goal’s mouth. Today, the field is gone. So are the pre-war houses. Gone, too, is the aroma of dried fishes and prawns. The smell of dead waters, with oozing black gooey mud, downriver is no longer carried by the south wind to my balcony as I stare nostalgically across the railing. These steel-framed glass buildings rise up in front of me to touch the skies. They glitter against the noon sun; the reflection hurts my aging eyes. I try so hard to recall. But my memories are failing fast. There’s little left to jolt my memory, other than the fading image lingering in my mind of boys in shorts and singlets kicking a mud-coated ball low into the goal, only to be stopped by the ponding with a splash.

98


Aging and Living a Fulfilling Life T. Rajagopal

A

ging is inevitable. A life well led is a life that is a treasure trove of fond memories.

Family, friends are all part of our well being. The more you give the more you will receive. As we age we become wiser and able to give advice to others. Finally when it comes to our day of deliverance from Earth we become immortals in the memory of our loved ones. So let us learn to give and let us receive the blessings before we ascend to the next level as fond memories. In God We Trust.

99


Five Foot Ways Yohanna Abdullah

Pavements are there

Singapore has less homeless

To pave the way

Than most countries

For passers by

Usually I’ll be the only one

To shelter from the elements

Me and my shadow

Rain

Digging into rubbish bins

Or

To eke a living

Shine

Selling on Sungei Road

To reach

Meeting

Heaven

Cardboard ladies And drinks can men

It is a place to sit

And other karang guni folks

Or lie down When you are tired

We all know the

And

Five foot way

Homeless

One foot for Hippie

It is dry and cool

One foot for Ecstasy

It invites sleep

One for Anarchy

I know for

And one for Lovely

I have slept

And one for Sanity

On five foot ways When I am high

In short, it

Ran away from home

HEALS

Where fancy beds

Jangled nerves

And warm water showers

Are soothed

Don’t entice

By the cool floors

As much as the world outdoors

And the ageing buildings Glorious

My bed by night are fields

Nostalgic

Staircase landings

Always

And five foot ways

Enticing

I sleep Or not But I care not What people think I know from all my wanderings

100


盔 甲

一身皮肤就是岁月磨出来的盔甲。 到了这境地,什么得失荣辱坎坷已

不再具有太大的意义,活着,而且 依然自信地活着,就是胜利。 这其实就是一尊美妙的塑像, 每一处细节,每一条筋络,

(Armour)

吴 韦 材

每一块老老实实的肌肉, 虽在黑白般尘世中, 完整而立体, 彰显出坚持的价值。 This skin is what I have scraped out from the times In such circumstance what is gained or lost? and what honour or disgrace is left? there is not much meaning here, in life and anyway, to live confidently is victory in fact, it is a beautiful statue each detail, each channel each honest muscle though it is in the black and white world it is still solid and complete showing me the value of persistence

101


尊 严 (Dignity)

吴 韦 材

假如

不把拘楼病看作病, 那么把它看成是年龄老化的代价

或许会舒服些,就算腰真的无法伸直了, 但志气,依然不屈。婆婆推着轮椅, 我们看不到谁坐在轮椅上, 但她与轮椅上的人仍然有勇气 向着做体操的一群靠近。是的人会老, 背会弯,但只要一息尚存, 谁都仍能有直立的响往。 这心态来自一份维护, 而所要维护的无论再如何轻, 如何微,其实就是尊严。 If you don’t see a hunched back as an ailment, but merely the price of ageing is it comforting? Though you can’t straighten your back to reach your ambition, you remain unyielding. Grandma pushes the wheelchair. We can’t see who sits there, but we know she and her passenger are brave enough to approach the group of people exercising. People will age, backs will bend, but as long there is breath, anyone can still long to stand upright this mindset comes from preserving dignity No matter how light one is or how small, this indeed is dignity.

102


把伞在手中,在心头,期盼着,

这 把 伞 (The Umbrella)

蓉 子

它能为我遮雨挡风。

从年轻时候,我就一心一意要撑开它, 形成我的天空。一日日,一年年, 我紧紧抓着,不曾放松。一直一直到现在, 我身子已弓,我 眼朦 胧,一 生心力已使尽, 而这把伞,竟是越来越沉重! 无力,无奈!连个幻想也没有了, 谁能知道我的苦衷! This umbrella in my hand and in my heart looks forward as it shelters me from wind and rain from the time I was young I’ve tried wholeheartedly to get it open so that it could form my sky each day of each passing year I cling to it, never loosening my grip even now, my body arched and eyes dim I use all the strength I have but this umbrella grows heavier all the time I am weak and without options – without even a dream and there is no one who understands my troubles

103


有清洁大地的鸿图,

清 洁 大 地 的 鸿 图

从家里到家外,把垃圾清除。

早上扫干净了,下午又一塌糊涂! 悲哀不是我的个性,水湿地滑, 跌倒了也不等人来扶。 我有清洁大地的鸿图, 无奈日落彩霞隐,明月有无? 照不见路途,我扫啊扫, 把自己扫老了! 莫不是,不小心,把岁月扫入天湖? I have a great plan to clean the Earth

(A Great Plan to Clean the Earth)

蓉 子

At home and when I am out I will clear the rubbish In the morning, all is clear by afternoon, an utter mess It is not like me to be morose as slippery as water and when I fall, I do not wait for another’s hand to lift me I have a great plan to clean the Earth When the sunset is hidden behind the clouds will the moon shine bright? If no light shows me the path I will sweep and sweep sweeping until I have grown old The problem is, if I am not careful will I pull the ages into the sky?

104


手 推 车 (Cart )

冯 焕 好

序 推 移,把 我 一 头 青 丝 蜕 变成白发。

华 灯 初 上,我 推 着 半 车 硬 纸 皮 , 蹒跚在热潮隐退的街道上。

W

ith the changing seasons, my hair whitens. Evening’s lamps are lit as I push my cart,

limping along streets crowded with those making their retreat. Countless lights twinkle as each family gathers to eat and spend a leisurely evening in front

万 家 灯 火,家 家 户 户,不 是 围 着 吃 晚 餐 ,

of the TV.

就 是 在 看 电 视 消 闲 。唯 独 我,在 冷 寂 中

I, lonely and forlorn, look about me, seeking.

左 顾 右 盼 ,寻 寻 觅 觅 。 谁 不 想 阖 家 欢 聚,含 饴 弄 孙 ? 为 什 么 ?我 这 双 劳 动 了 大 半 辈 子 的 手 , 仍需要劳动? 拾 起 堆 积 在 小 巷 后、小 店 前 的 垃 圾 桶 旁 的 纸 皮 箱 。 拆 开, 折 叠 ; 拾 起 、拆 开 、 折 叠 。大 的 小 的 ,一 并 放 在 手 推 车 上 。 这些纸皮用来换取我的米粮和租房费。

Who does not want to gather with his family spending his final days playing with his grandchildren? But do not these hands, toiling all their life, need yet to carry on their labour? I collect my goods from back alleys or pick up cartons from beside of the garbage bin in front of shops. I open them, deconstruct them, then refold them. Collect, deconstruct, refold – large, small, together in my cart. Just enough to pay my rent and supply my meals.

这手推车也将把我推向岁月的尽头,

This cart will carry me through my remaining days,

生命的终点。

all the way to the end of my life.

105


阿 伯 与 钟

到了一位慈悲的年轻 人,她看见许多老家

仍然在劳动职场干活,如小 贩中心的清洁工人、公共场 所的卫生打扫员等,让她心 里打结。牛车水附近,仍然 搬运着沉重旧货或大摞旧纸 箱的佝偻的老者,每每令她 心中大不忍。她想为这群人

(Ah Pek and the Clock)

做点事,于是用相机摄取令 她心酸的瞬间,她以这些影 像,广邀大家为文,替凄惨 的老年人申诉。不可拒绝善

钟 袁 见

心,于是接受邀请。因为懦 弱,只有勇气选择一张不凄 惨的照片,为它取名《阿伯 与钟》。 照片中的阿伯是一位身体依然 壮 硕的男人,百般无聊又无奈地 坐在行人道边缘的地下,身旁 是与他上半身等高的老钟。乍 看之下的反应:他想带钟去修 理?或,他想到古董店卖钟,因 为收购价钱实在不合理而放 弃? 或,他的子女把他和这大 笨钟一同赶出家门? 或,他的 老 婆要他处理掉这大笨钟。到底 为什么?“钟” 不知道,只有那男

I

met a compassionate young woman. When she saw that many old people were still working, serving in roles such as hawker centre cleaners or janitors in public facilities, she was uneasy. Near Chinatown, there was one elderly man who shouldered a heavy load on his hunched back, piling old cartons to one side. She could hardly bear the sight of his bent form. As she tried to think of what she might do to help this group of people, she snapped photos of many sad scenes, and keeping the images in her heart. With these images in mind, she started to write, offering to speak on behalf of these wretched people to appeal for help from others. Because of her great kindness, many accepted her invitation. Because the human mind is a weak thing, she only had the courage to choose to present a picture of that which was not too miserable, calling it Ah Pek and the Clock. The ah pek in the picture was an elderly man whose body remained husky. He sat beside a pedestrian crossing, looking bored and helpless. Beside him was a clock that stood at about half the man’s own height. At first glance, one naturally wonders whether he is bringing the clock for repairs, or perhaps he hoped to sell it to an antique shop, but is now disappointed that it did not fetch what he thought a fair price. Or was it that his children kicked both him and his stupid clock out of the house? Or maybe it was his wife who told him to take care of that stupid clock once and for all. What exactly was the reason for that? The clock certainly didn’t know – only the man knew.

人知道。

106


“钟”是人类古老的伟大的发

阿 伯 与 钟

明之一,虽然见证了人间万 样故事,却没有记忆,也不 会记录。不似人类的另两项 伟大发明-摄影和电影,可 以抓住时间、留下风貌。但 是, “钟”的 机械运作绝对值得赞 美 和 歌 颂。最负盛名的“钟” ,非 英国的大笨钟莫属,居高临下,在

(Ah Pek and the Clock) 钟 袁 见

万人之上,分分秒秒、时时刻刻 供 人 仰 望 。百 年 不 负 众 望 地 履 行 时 计 任 务 ,连 维 修 的 次 数 都 屈 指 可数。 2 0 1 2 年与奥斯卡擦身而过的电 影《雨果》-导演马丁. 斯科塞 斯改编 Brian Selznick 著的儿童 故事书,制作成3D电影,以1930 年代曾在巴黎蒙帕纳斯火车站 ((今奥塞博物馆 ) 的四面大钟为中 心,歌颂机动器物-钟、火车、机 器人等。同时,也对法国电影先 驱-乔治.梅里埃倾诉仰慕,因为 他为电影留下动人的记录。 故事的开始是火车站、大“钟”和 住在大钟里的孤儿-雨果,雨果 继承了父亲的天分热爱机械,甚 至在父亲过世,伯父失踪之后分 秒 不差地维护火车站大钟 的功 能。他引出了那时已经破 产的梅 里埃,梅里埃用仅剩下的钱在火

The clock is one of humankind’s great inventions. Though it bears witness to humanity’s countless stories, it has no memory, and has no way of keeping a record. It is unlike humankind’s two other major inventions, the photograph and film, which capture time and leave behind a permanent record. Even so, the clock is absolutely a praiseworthy machine, and it enjoys an esteemed position in our midst. The most famous clock is England’s Big Ben, which towers over the heads of the people, counting each minute and second until it sounds the hour, causing the eyes of everyone to look up at it. For centuries it has carried on, fulfilling every expectation placed on it. Further, one can count on one’s fingers how many times the chronometer has needed repair, so rare an event has it been. In 2012, Brian Selznick’s children’s novel Hugo was made into a 3D film. It was set at the Gare Montparnasse Railway Station (now the Museé d’Orsay), where four clocks serve as the centrepiece, a monument to mechanical objects such as clocks, trains, and robots. It also featured French filmmaker Georges Melies’s pioneer film, into which he had poured all of his admiration, leaving behind a touching record in film. The story begins in the train station with the orphaned boy Hugo, who lives in the clock tower. Hugo, who inherited a natural gift for mechanics from his father, continued to maintain the clocks at the station even after his father passed away and his uncle went missing. At the station he meets Melies, now bankrupt, who has invested his last bit of money in a toy and candy store in the railway station, and now earns his living from this small business.

车站开了一家玩具糖果店,做小 生意维持生活。

107


梅里埃想像力丰富,从小显露

阿 伯 与 钟

绘画才华,以魔术起家,接触 电影后,全心投入。他 运用 累 积的基本 功力,如绘画和魔术 等,发挥在电影制作上。梅 里 埃 创 作 了 电 影 特 效 技 术 、发 现 停 拍 替 代 的 手 法 、以 多 重 曝光为 画面 添 魅力、用 快 速 摄 影,慢 速 播放增强视觉效应、以

(Ah Pek and the Clock) 钟 袁 见

及人工上色等,凭天赋他创造超 时代的手法,制作了5 3 1 部电影。后 来因为第一次世界大战,及其它 因素不幸破产。 《雨果》中使用了不少当年梅 里埃摄 制 影片的 片 段,似开启了 时间囊,展现 20 世纪初的人文风 貌。如:月亮中弹的画面,充分 地表现了梅里埃式的幽默。时间 不能捕捉,只能借雕刻在胶片上 的影像,保 留 当 时、当年的风流 韵味:照片能把握刹那,为瞬间 留影。 演梅里埃的本.金斯利,摄制《雨 果》那年,约 六十六七岁。接下 来几年,他至少参与约 20演出。导 演马丁. 斯科塞斯比本.金斯利年长 一岁,导演 了《雨果》之 后,又制 作另一部名作《华尔街之狼》。 坐 在 钟 旁 的 阿 伯 ,您 比 他 们 看 起来年轻 ,希 望有机会知 道您 和“钟”之间的故事?

Melies had a rich imagination, and his talent for painting revealed itself when he was still just a child. He started his career as a magician, then came into contact with film and devoted himself to it wholeheartedly. He used all the basic skills he had accumulated from painting, performing as a stage magician, and other jobs, giving full rein to his talents through film production. He created special effects technologies and discovered methods of pausing and substituting. He brought much charm to the screen through the use of multiple lighting exposures, fast motion photography, slow motion, and visual enhancements through artificial coloring. He created many methods that were ahead of their time, producing 531 films in the process. Later, due to the First World War and other factors, he was forced into bankruptcy. Hugo incorporates many fragments from films Melies shot over the years. It is like opening a time capsule, putting the world of the early 20th century on display. For instance, in the image of the shooting of the moon, we see Melies’s sense of humour on full display. Time cannot be captured; it can only be borrowed from the image engraved on film, retaining that time and the romantic charm of that age. A photo can grasp a moment, keeping it as a memento. When Ben Kingsley played Melies in Hugo, he was sixty-six years old. He was involved in at least twenty more films over the next few years. Producer Martin Scorsese was a year older than Kingsley when they worked on the film. After making Hugo, he went on to create another of his masterpieces, The Wolf of Wall Street. The ah pek sitting beside the clock looks younger than both of those men. I wish I had the chance to know the story behind him and his clock.

108


旧 戏 院

万不要被一些画家或摄影 家 所蒙骗!

有人喜欢把世间人、事、物的美好一 面,呈现在人们的眼前,无意间误导 人 们 ,以 为 世 间 永 远 是 美 好 的 ,一 旦 面对不如意事故时,不容易翻越... ...

(The Truth 其实,世间包括三个部分 About 1. 情世间 the Lotus Pond) 它包括了一切有感情、会思考的生

孔 祥 乐

命。他们都是因缘和合而生,经历 生、老、病、死后,因缘不继而示 寂,不断流转在六道轮回里。在整个 过程中,有着生气蓬勃、老弱病苦的 一面,更有死亡入灭、回归空寂的必 然结果。

2. 器世间 包含了山河大地、建筑、矿物、植 物等 等 ; ( 植 物 虽 然 有 生 命 , 但 没 有思想感情,不入轮回,因此不在 情世间之列。)它们所经历的过程 是:成、住、坏、空,虽然有过鼎 盛时期,最终也是毁坏、消逝。

3. 时世间 它不 但 包 括 了秒、分、时、日、月、年,人 们 约 定 成 俗 的 计 算 方 法 ,也 包 含 了 不 同 的 时 段 。 比 如 人 ,有 婴 孩 阶 段 ,青年、中 年和老年等;时世间里 的 一切,也是无法脱离生、住、异、灭的 过 程。 因此,世间总离不了诞生成长、繁盛、衰 退和入灭这些现象,过分执着长驻或抗 拒某种阶段,都是痛苦及不切实际的!

No matter what happens, don’t be deceived by artists or photographers. Some people like to present the beautiful people, things, and animals in our world before others’ eyes. In doing so, they inadvertently mislead others to think the world is always beautiful, then when those who have been misled experience life’s mishaps, they find it difficult to overcome their problems.

In fact, there are three parts to our world The Emotional Realm This includes a living being that has both sentiment and deep thought about life. We are born of fate, then when we have gone through life, old age, illness, and death, and our fate finally comes to an end, we expire, sent to endlessly wander through the six divisions of the Wheel of Karma. Throughout the process, some are full of vim and vigour, some are sick and full of suffering, and still others face destruction, but for all, the return to nirvana is the inevitable outcome.

The Mechanical Realm This includes the natural world, buildings, minerals, plants, and the like. (Though plants are living, they are not sentient, so do not reincarnate; it is for this reason that they are not part of the emotional realm.) The process these things go through is creation, life, dilapidation, and emptiness. Though we go through times of prosperity, in the end, each will be destroyed and ultimately fade away.

The Temporal Realm This not only includes seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, years, and all the other proper terms by which the human world marks time, but also set periods of time. For instance, humans go through the stages of infancy, youth, middle age, and old age. Nothing in this world can break away from the cycle of birth, life, separation, and destruction. Therefore, the world cannot escape the phenomenon of birth, flourishing, deterioration, and destruction. Those who are obsessed and try to hold on, defying the season, will only face pain and suffering, as a result of their impossible desire.

109


下 棋

G

rowing old is mandatory, but becoming mature

and wise is a conscious choice

(A Game Of Chess)

洪 孟 珠 博 士

we make. Age and wisdom do not necessarily come hand in

hand. To develop the latter, 长越老是本能,越长 越成熟越有智慧,

则是一种选择。一般上智慧 与年龄并进,可是有时年龄 单独到来,智慧却缺席了。 要克服这种困境,就得拥有

a healthy body and mind are paramount. The way to a healthy mind rests on regular exercise for the brain. What better way than to do that with like minded old friends?

健康的身体与良好的精神状

A game of chess is a great

态。锻炼头脑是保持良好精

way to stretch and flex those

神状态的良方,若能与志趣

mental muscles. Keeping a

相投的朋友一同锻炼,效果

level head and good focus is

会更理想,也更能持久。

needed to analyse strategies

下棋是锻炼头脑的好方法, 下棋需要对手,这能吸引志 趣相投的朋友,成为对手与 观众。下棋者面对棋盘时, 就得集中精神,保持头脑清 醒以分析棋盘的情况,思考 进军的方法。面对逆境或受 挫,还得设法保持平静,使

and predict the moves by your opponent. When the opponent has the upper hand, it is all the more important to remain calm to have any chance of turning the tables. Even a game lost is a valuable lesson learnt and experience gained to fight another day.

110


A Game Of Chess Dr Ang Beng Choo

Keeping a positive attitude during times of adversity is equally applicable to a game of chess as it is to the ups and downs in life. A game of chess brings together like minded people. This is where friendship can be forged between players and among onlookers. Chess is not just about pitting one’s wits against others, but more importantly, a catalyst for enlarging one’s social circle and for maintaining an active lifestyle in old age. 精神集中,才能以清醒的头脑, 分析现状,克服困难。输了就当 成一次经验,从中学习,提升技 术,面对下一次的挑战。经过这 种训练,遇逆境时,头脑就不易 受打击,而且能正面思考,改善 现状。 照片中的乐龄人士,在下棋时都 聚精会神在棋盘上,乐在其中, 并不在乎下棋者是谁,围观者多 寡。这证明只要对眼前的事物满 足,周围环境并不重要。可见,

The photos show a group of senior citizens fully engrossed in the game, totally oblivious to their surroundings. It didn't matter who were the ones playing, or who were the ones looking on. The strategies that were unfolding before their eyes were all that counted. To fully enjoy a game, one did not need the most comfortable setting nor the largest group of spectators. All that was needed was appreciation of what's at hand in the present moment. Isn't this the best reflection of one of life's best maxims?

下棋是训练乐龄人士面对现状、 扩大朋友圈的良好方法。

111


亲 情 (Affections) 杜 珠 成

A

though there is a distinction to be made between older and younger people, there need not be a gap.

We need only love and care, and to do away with hate

与 幼 虽 有 辈 分 之 分 ,却 无 距 离 之 限 。只 有 爱 与 关 怀 ,没 有 恨 与 怨 怒 。— 是 亲 情 拉 近 了 距 离 , 拒 绝 了 恨 与 怒,让一切都显得平和愉悦。

and anger. It is affection that pulls us together, closing

在 爷 爷 的 眼,小 孙 女是要加以保护,给予 物质 与 精 神 的 照 顾 ,让她快高长大。在小孙女的眼 神里,爷爷是最可信任的长辈,最应该珍惜的 亲人。他们之间,没有距离,而是充满关怀与 爱。爷爷在切肉时,切一块给小孙女,完全没 有盘计,即使是一根菜,亦满怀爱意。

protected, and it was up to him to provide spiritual,

就 这 样,长 辈 抚 育 幼 辈 ,幼 辈 孝 顺 长 辈 ,使 家 庭 生 活 充 满 和 谐 快 乐 。亲 情 去 除 了 辈 分、贫 富 的距离。

love. When Grandfather cut his meat, he cut a piece

the gap, driving out rage and hatred, leaving us peaceful and happy. In Grandfather’s eyes, his granddaughter was to be material, and mental care for her so that she could grow up quickly. In his granddaughter’s eyes, Grandfather was the most trustworthy of her elders, and her most cherished loved one. There was no gap between them, but only a space filled with care and for his granddaughter, never a calculative thought in his mind. Even a single stalk of vegetable was given

亲情,千万年不变;亲情维系着一代又一代的和 谐关怀。

with absolute love.

亲情,温暖了人生。

the young come to respect their elders. Family life is

It is in this way that the elders attend to the young and then full of harmony and joy. Affection can do away with the generation gap, just as it can help us bridge the wealth gap. Familial affection will never change. It holds us together in harmony and happiness from one generation to the next. Familial affection is the warmth of life. 112


慧 眼 (Discerning Eyes)

杜 珠 成

无论

红黄蓝白,都 能分辨不同颜

色 ,就 是 高 低 胖 瘦 ,亦 能 看 清

W

e are able to distinguish between red, yellow, blue, or

white, just as we can differentiate high

不同形象;更能透视是非曲

from low or plump from slim, seeing

直 。 无 论 如 何 ,世 上 的 五 彩

various shapes, and even more, we

缤 纷,都 看 得 清 楚,瞧 得 仔 细 。

can see through right and wrong. In

在时间的长河里,一切都在发 展变化。是美好的,就多看几 眼;是丑恶的,尽量回避。只 要看得正确,不受蒙蔽,便能 迎向正途。

our colourful world, we can discern all things clearly, if we observe carefully. In the long river of time, everything develops and changes. If a thing is beautiful, our gaze lingers. If it is ugly, we try to avoid it. As long as we look correctly and are not misled, we will not be easily blinded, and we will come to the right path.

113


慧 眼 (Discerning Eyes)

杜 珠 成

In the flow of time, that which is brilliant can become faded, and that which is obvious can be obscured. If we want to face up to things, the aid of a good lens can correct our vision, allowing us to continue see more clearly that which is right in front of us. For instance, we must be consistent in our reading, and serious

在岁月的流动中,有的绚烂 会趋向平淡,有的鲜明会归 于 模 糊 。 如 要 正 视 ,就 得 借 助镜片,改善视力,以便继

in our writing, and we must allow our eyes to see things clearly so that we may more earnestly pursue truth, goodness, and beauty.

续看清所呈现的一切。比如

So throughout our lives, we must

阅读与写作。阅读要持续,写作

progress in step with the times. We

要认真。而且要依靠双眼,透视

must keep our eyes open to observe

一切,追求真善美 。

all things more clearly, so that we

所 以 有 生 之 年 ,就 得 与 时 间 并 进 ,睁 开 双 眼 看 清 一 切 ,才 不 至 误入歧途,才能眼看四方,耳听 八面,拥抱这璀璨的世界。 慧眼扫除了一切的迷惘与障 碍 ,把 一 切 有 形 无 形 的 都 看 清 看透。

will not go astray. We must look all round us and listen to voices from all directions, embracing the whole of our resplendent world. Discerning eyes remove all obstructions, seeing through to even the intangible realities. This world is forever changeable.

这 个 世 界 到 底 是 变 化 多 端 的 ,慧

It is discerning eyes that bring us a

眼负起透视的任务 。

clear perspective. 114


留 守 岗 位 (Remaining at One’s Post )

何 乃 强 医 生

守着这个工作岗位一这 这 张 打 金 枱( 制 造 金 首

饰的工作桌子),已经不知多少 年了。 当他还是十多岁的青少年,开 始,他就想学习打金手艺。在那 年头,没有工艺学校的培训,要成 为一个合格打金匠,成为师傅,就 得站在老师傅的桌子旁边,靠自 己观察学习。他还要侍候老师 傅 的 饮 食 ,端 茶 奉 水 ,准 备 餐 食。那时是让他学习的。师傅 高 兴 时 就 教 他 一 点 功 夫 ,不 高 兴时他只能枯站着,看师傅的脸 色。这就是传统训练。

I

don’t know how many years he held this position, standing at this table hammering gold (a jewelrymaker’s table). When he was still a teenager, from the beginning, he wanted to learn the art of shaping gold. Back then, there was no training in the handicrafts at school. To be a qualified goldsmith and become a master, one had to stand beside the old master artisan’s table. on his own skills of observation. The apprentice took care of the master’s meals, serving tea and water and preparing food. That was the time for him to learn. If the master was happy, he would impart a bit of his skill. When the master was unhappy, the apprentice could only stand by dully, observing the master’s face. This was the traditional method of training.

115


留 守 岗 位 (Remaining at One’s Post )

何 乃 强 医 生

两三年过去了,他有了自己的工 作桌子。从此他独当一面,制造各 种金首饰一戒指、项链、耳环、手 链、头簪,发夹等等。他把旧金饰 融化,再循环把金块锤打,拔线成 丝。在 强 烈 灯 光下剪、锉 、焊和 敲,制 成让人佩戴,艳光四射,散 发魅力的金首饰。 他这一双灵巧的手,雕造出金烁 烁的饰物,养活了一家大小,直 至垂垂老矣。随着先进技术的产 生,首饰制造方法机械化。设计 复杂,款式百变。他已经被抛在 时代后头,只能做些简单的修补 工作。 坐在打金 枱 前,敲 敲 打 打,补 补修修。日 复 日,年 复 年,守 着 这 个 岗 位 ,守 着 这 将 消 逝 的 行业。

After two or three years, the apprentice would work at his own table. From then on, he would assume the sole responsibility for one particular task, making various sort of jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, hair clips, or hair pins. He melted the old gold, recycling various pieces, then hammered it into fine threads. Under the light of a powerful lamp, he cut, filed, soldered, and knocked the gold into shape for people to wear as splendid, charming gold ornaments. His lively hands carved bright, shining ornaments, and he sold them to support his own family until his children were grown. As he grew older and advanced technology emerged, manufacturing in the field was mechanised and designs grew more complex, with limitless styles becoming more readily available. He had been left behind, and could now only do simple repair jobs. He sat at his table hammering and repairing. Day after day and year after year, he maintained this post, keeping the vanishing profession alive as he worked.

116


W

arna-warna kehidupan indah dan menarik. Sang anak kan membapa kelak tauladan

dari kehidupannya. Sang bapa kan menelek lukisan kehidupannya untuk dijadikan renungan coretan warna kehidupan yang dibingkaikannya. Wayang adalah coretan kehidupan dalam apa juga pemaparannya. Ia mengungkap kejahilan masa silam dan ia juga mengungkap kebijaksanaan manusia dalam menempuh gelombang hidup yang belum diketahuinya walau sesaat dari langkah yang bakal diambilnya. Ramai manusia suka menonton wayang. Sama ada

Wayang

( Stage Show) Nadiputra Almahdi

mereka sedar atau tidak mereka adalah sebahagian dari kehidupan dalam wayang itu, yang jelas manusia yang menontonnya mencari kepuasan emosi dari pencerminan hidup wayang itu.

The colors of life are beautiful and interesting. A child will eventually take a leaf out of his father’s life. The father will etch his life’s pictures turning them into a contemplation of the graffiti of life’s colors which he has framed. The stage show is the graffiti of life in whatever form it’s displayed. It reveals the ignorance of the past and it also reveals the ingenuity of man in riding the waves of life without knowing for even a second the next step he will take. Many people love to watch stage shows. Whether they realize it or not they are a part of lives in the show, it’s clear the people watching are looking for emotional gratification from the lives mirrored in the show.

117


R

oda kehidupan sentiasa berputar, sekalipun meninggalkan saki baki kehidupan yang ditelan

kemajuan masih berputar di tengah-tengah gejolak kehidupan yang kian mencabar. Singapura telah jauh maju, jadi salah satu mercu tanda rantau Asia dan dunia yang disegani. Namun beca (trishaw) yang masih kekal wujud, jadi lambang sejarah betapa tuntutan teknologi masih diluputkan daya upaya tulang empat kerat manusia Singapura yang tidak putus asa,

Trishaw (Trishaw Ride)

Nadiputra Almahdi

sekalipun kembali ke akar kehidupan zaman silamnya. Justru, roda kehidupan berputar, berputar dan terus berputar, tidak kira siapa yang mengayuhnya, tidak kira siapa yang menerajuinya.

The wheel of life is always turning, even as it leaves behind remnants of lives swallowed by progress it still turns right in the midst of life’s ever challenging turmoils. Singapore has made much progress, to become one of regional Asia’s and the world’s admired landmarks. Nevertheless the trishaws that still survive, becomes a historical symbol of how the demands of technology still loses out to the efforts of bone and muscle of the people of Singapore who never give up, even if only to return to the roots of their bygone way of life. Thus, the wheel of life turns, turns and keeps turning, no matter who rides it, no matter who helms it.

118


Demi Sesuap Nasi

(For a Mouthful of Rice) Mokther HJ Hashim

H

anya untuk mencari sesuap nasi. Untuk

Just to seek a mouthful of rice. To fill an

mengisi perut yang kosong. Kekadang

empty stomach. At times fate is not kind.

nasib tidak berbelah padanya. Namun

Still the daily struggle does not end there.

kehidupan harian tidak berakhir di situ.Mencari

The search continues, just so that the body

terus mencari, agar tulang empat kerat ini

may remain useful.

terus digunakan.

At this very second it is not wealth that’s

Dalam saat ketika ini bukan kekayaan yang

sought. At the end of this winding road which

dicari. Penghujung jalan yang berliku ini yang

has to be forced and compelled in order to find

harus diredah dan dipaksa mencari ruang untuk

breathing space.

terus bernafas.

The belief to carry on living is the aim and

Kepercayaan untuk terus hidup adalah matlamat

should become a focus so that life does not

dan tumpuan yang harus diberikan agar hidup

become a burden. It is said one can make a

tidak menjadi bebanan. Kata orang rezeki ada

living anywhere. It awaits steadfastly. Whether

di mana-mana. Ia menunggu dengan setia.

we wish to continue searching or to stand tall

Samada kita ingin terus mencari atau berdiri

feeling satisfied as we thump our chests.

tegak berasa puas sambil mendabik dada. Dalam erti kata yang lain..usaha dan terus

In other words.. strive and continue striving to find a way out to overcome destitution.

berusaha demi mencari jalan penyelesaian menumpaskan kemiskinan.

119


P

erjalanan hidup pasti akan dilalui oleh setiap insan yang bernyawa di bumi ini..

Ada perjalanan yang pendek. Manakala ada pula melalui perjalanan yang panjang. Disulami dengan pengalaman yang berbagai ragamnya. Boleh dikatakan perjalanan ini menemui perhentiannya pada satu masa, satu ketika. Namun tiada siapa yang dapat menjangkakan bila ia akan berhenti dan menemui noktahnya.

Perjalanan (Journey)

Mokther HJ Hashim

Adakalanya perjalanan itu harus dilalui dengan liku-liku dan ranjau yang senantiasa ada menunggu untuk memberi halangan dan tangtangan. Membuatkan perjalanan itu tidak licin dan mudah. Hanya segelintir dari insan yang dilahirkan tidak menemui tembok tamparan dan kegagalan. Walau apa pun, lumrah perjalanan hidup manusia tiada siapa yang berani menduga. Pastinya perjalanan itu akan berhenti apabila sampai waktunya..

Every living soul on earth will have to pass through life’s journey.. Some journeys are short. Whereas others pass through a long journey. Embroidered with multi-faceted experiences. One could say the journey meets its end at one particular time, one particular moment. Still no one can tell when it will stop and find its closure. There are times the journey has to be passed through with twists and turns that are always waiting to obstruct and challenge. Rendering the journey neither smooth nor easy. Only a small fraction of the souls that are born will not encounter the walls of lashings and failures. Nevertheless, no one will dare predict the ordinary course of human lives. The only certainty is that the journey will end when its time has come..

120


நைரெவளிச்சம்​் (Grey Light) KTM Iqbal

இளைமயின் ெதளிந்த பார்ைவ முதுைமயில்

Carrying the bags

இதயத்திற்கு

of experiences

இடம் மாறிவிடுகிறது

The back has bent

பத்திரமாக

like a rainbow

நைர ெவளிச்சத்தில்

This colourful bow

இப்ேபாது

seems but faded

நன்றாகத் ெதரிகிறது

cannot be broken

வாழ் க் ைகயின்

with ease

பள்ளமும் ேமடும்

by anyone

யார் ெசான்னது

The clear vision of youth

முதுைம

has been safely displaced

இருள் கவியும் அந்தி என்று ?

towards the heart these days

அனுபவ மூைடகளின் பாரம் தாங்கிேய

In the grey light

எங்களில் பலருக்கு

the ups and downs

வானவில்லாய் வைளந்து

of the roads

கிடக்கிறது முதுகு

are vividly visible

வண்ணங்கள் இழந்த

Who described old age

இந்த வானவில்ைல

as the darkness engulfing

எவரும்

the dusk of life?

எளிதில் ஒடித்துவிட முடியாது

121


நம் விருப்பம் (Our Desire) KTM Iqbal

முதுைம கிழிசல் அல்ல; ைதயல் வாலிபம் கிழித்த வாழ்க்ைகத் துணிையத் தள்ளாடும் முதுைமதான் ைதத்துக் ெகாடுக்கிறது

Dotage isn’t a tear but a tack Decrepitude stitches the cloth of life

இருள் இளைமயின் நிறம்; முதுைம ெவள்ைளயடித்த ெவண்பா

torn by youth

சாயம் ெவளுத்தாலும் மரியாைத ெபறுகிறது முதுைம

But senescence

முதுைம ெவற்றிதரும் பலவீனம்

Devoid of colours but

முதுைமயால் அலங்கரிக்கப் ப்டுவேத

Darkness the colour of youth a beautiful white sonnet 1

receives all due reverence Doddery life That gives the victory of frailty Decorating ourselves With old age is only Our wish

The original poem has the word Venba (ெவண்பா) is a form of classical Tamil poetry.

1

122


சித்திரக்கவிைத (Painting of Poetry) R SathiKannan

அனுபவப் பயணதைத திரும்பிப்பார்க்கிேறன் கடந்து வந்த பாைதகளில் ெவளிச்சமும் இருளும் மாறி மாறி வந்து ேபாயிருக்கின்றன வழி ெநடுக இன்பமும் துன்பமும் அலங்கரித்திருக்கின்றன

I reminisce my journey of experience A trail is alternated with light and darkness Adorned with moments of happiness and sorrow Freezing cold and scorching sun have strengthened me

என்ைன உைறபனிக் குளிரும் தகிக்கும் கனலும் பட்ைடத் தீட்டியிருக்கின்றன

Amongst my companions

என்னுடன் பயணித்தவர்களில்

etched in my heart

என்னைப் பாதித்தவர்களின் முகங்கள் மனதில் பதிந்திருக்கின்றன

The faces of those who impacted me,

who lived for me, intermingled profoundly in my soul Relatives

எனக்காக வாழ்ந்தவர்களின் முகங்கள் உயிரிலும் மனதிலும் ஆழமாய்க் கலந்திருக்கின்றன

Friends

உறவும் நட்பும் சுற்றமும் பயணத்ைத சுவாரசியமாகியிருக்கின்றன

The beautiful journey of experience

Community Hath made my journey interesting

I paint in poetry Love encompasses as the soul of the verses

அழகிய அனுபவப் பயணத்ைத சித்திரக் கவிைதயாய் தீட்டுகிேறன் அன்ெபன்றெசால்ேல நிைறகிறது ஆன்மாவாய் கவிைதெயங்கும்! 123


நீள்கிறது வாழ்க்ைக இதமாக (Gently Rolls the Life...) முதுைமேய! R Sathikannan

நீ என்னுள் நுைழந்துவிட்டதாக அவர்கள் ேபசிக்ெகாள்கிறார்கள் பாவம் அவர்கள் ! அவர்களுக்ெகன்ன ெதரியவா ேபாகிறது? நீ அனுபவம் குைழத்த மனெமன்ப து! நானும் நீயும் கவிைதச் சுைவேபால எப்ேபாதும் புதுசாக இளைமயாகேவ இருக்கிேறாெமன்று!

Senility Rumours circulates that You have surreptiously filled my being Alas! I pity these gossip mongers. How can they ever know that you're but The epitome of time-mellowed sensitive heart! Do they know? That we are like the ever-living poetry ! Permanently youthful and revel in novelty? I reminisce ....

அைசேபாடுகிேறன் அனுபவங்கைள

That love, a wonder

அ ' ன்பு' அற்புதெமன்பைத

That virtue, a beauty

அ ' றம்' அழகானெதன்பைத

That diligence, a truthful

'உைழப்பு' உண்ைமெயன்பைத 'எளிைம' ஏற்றெமன்​்பைத அைசேபாடுகிேறன் அனுபவங்களாய் நீள்கிறது வாழ்க்ைக இதமாக! அர்த்தப்படுகிறது வாழ்க்ைக அன்பில் அறத்தில் ேநசிப்பில் எளிைமயில் !

That humility, an eminence I mull over my thoughts that sway gently swinging on the silent waves of the sea ! The life finds meaning in love, virtue, diligence and humility !

124


ேபரிளம் ெபண்ணுருத்தி புகிட் ெகாம்பாக்கில் (The Elderly Young Lady in Bukit Gombak) Krishnamurthi Mathangi

ெசங்குத்து கல்மைல கீழ் ஆைமக் குளக்கைரயில் அமர்ந்திருக்கிறாள் அவேள கட்டி ைவத்த வந்தனமாைல வீடு திரும்புைகயில் அவைள வரேவற்கும் துன்னூசீ துன்னல்களால் ெபாங்கி வழியும் சாேராங்ைக ெதாட்டபடி அமர்ந்திருக்கின்றன அவள ் நிதம் வளர்க்கும் குளிர்பான காலிப் புட்டிகள் அவள் ேபசுவைத ேகட்பனவாக இைடத்தரகரின் சலித்தமுகத்ைத கலங்கிய நீரால் கழுவுகிறாள் அவ்வப்ேபாது மட்கிய ெராட்டி அவளும் ஆைமயும் தின்பதில்ைல முன்ெனாரு நாளில் மணிநாவில் ேமாதித ் தீர்த்த சுழிக்காற்று ஓைச எழுப்பாமேலேய உரு மாறுகின்றன புன்னைக கீற்றுகளாய்

She sits near the turtle pond under the vertical rock hill Her self-made bouquet of flowers welcomes her returning home With overwhelmed stitches her sarong touches the ear lending empty drink cans which she raises everyday Washing out the disgruntle face of the vendor in the murky waters sporadically Neither she nor her turtles eat stale baguettes The turbulence that stroke the tongue of her bell long ago morphs into smiling streaks in different colours daily without even a buzz

125


ைசனா டவுன் படிக்கட்டுகள் (Chinatown Steps) Vairavan Ramanathan

என்ன அப்படிப் பார்க்கிறீர்கள்! நான் தான்

Why do you look so surprised?

படிக்கட்டு ேபசுகிேறன்! என்ைன எத்தைன

I am the staircase speaking to you.

ஆயிரம் கால்கள் கடந்து ேபாயிருக்கும்? கணக்கு

Thousands of feet would have stepped on me.

ைவக்கவில்ைல. அன்றாடம் பல்லாயிரம் ேபர்கைள

I have no count of them. I ascend and descend

ஏற்றியும் விடுகிேறன். இறக்கியும் விடுகிேறன். நான்

thousands of people. I never retire.

ஓய்ெவடுப்பேத இல்ைல. ஆனால் என்மீது பலர்

But many sit on me to rest when they tire.

சற்று ேநரம் அமர்ந்து ஓய்ெவடுத்துச் ெசல்கிறார்கள்.

I retain the footsteps of all. I think sometimes.

எல்ேலாருைடய பாதச்சுவடுகைளயும் எனக்குள்

Those youthful feet that ran up on me stagger

பதிந்து ைவத்திருக்கிேறன். நான ் சில ேநரங்களில்

slowly after they age. Those legs that are

எண்ணிப்பார்ப்பதுண்டு. இளைமக்காலத்தில

suffering with knee pain today had hopped

என்ைனத் துள்ளிக் கடந்து ேபான கால்கள்,

up lively in the past. I feel pity watching them

வயதானபின்ே்ன ெமதுவாக தாங்கித் தாங்கி

now. That’s when I think how wonderful it

தள்ளாடி நடந்து ெசல்வைத. இன்று முட்டிவலியால்

would be if can I become an escalator and help

அவதிப்படும் பல கால்கள் அன்று துள்ளல்

them ascend or descend. I only feel sad at my

ேபாட்ட கால்கள். அவற்ைறப் பார்க்க எனக்குப்

inability. Just like me you too must be saving

பாவமாக இருக்கும். அபே்பாெதல்லாம

memories within. While going up or down me,

நான் நிைனப்ேபன், அப்படிேய நான் நகரும்

do they bloom from within?

படிக்கட்டாக மாறி அவதிப்படும் அந்தக் கால்கைள ஏற்றி விடமாட்ேடாமா என்று. என் இயலாைமைய நிைனத்து எனக்கு வருத்தமாக இருக்கும். இன்னும் பல வருத்தங்கள், மகிழ்ச்சிகள் எனக்குள் புைதந்து கிடக்கின்றன. என்ைனப் ேபாலேவ உங்களுக்குள்ளும் பல நிைனவுகைள நீங்களும் ேதக்கி ைவத்திருப்பீர்கள் இல்ைலயா? என்ைனக் கடந்து ே்பாகும் ே்பாது அைவ உங்களுக்குள்ளிருந்தும மலரும் நிைனவுகளாக ெவளிப்படுவதுண்டா?

126


தனித்து நிற்கும் வாைழப்பழ மூதாட்டி (Lonely Banana Woman) Vairavan Ramanathan

வயதாகிவிட்ட படியால் நிமிர்ந்து கூடநிற்கமுடியவில்ைல அவளால். ஆனாலும் அன்றாடம் வாைழப்பழம் வியாபாரம் ெசய்வதில ் ெகாஞ்சமும் அலுப்புத் தட்டிவிடவில்ைல கிழவிக்கு. நன்கு பழுத்த பழங்கைள சீக்கிரம் விற்றுத் தீர்த்துவிட ேவண்டும் என்பதற்காக அதிகமாகவும், சற்று காய்வட்டான பழங்கைள ஒன்றிரண்டு குைறவாகவும் கூறுகளாகக் கட்டி ைவக்கிறாள். வாடிக்ைகயாளர்கள் அவைள விட்டுப்ேபாய்விடாமலிருக்க என்ன ெசய்யலாம் என்று எண்ணியபடிேய ஒதுங்க ைவக்கிறாள். அழுகல் பழங்கைள அகற்றுகிறாள். சில்லைர இருக்கிறதா? என்று பணப்ைபையப் பார்க்கிறாள். இன்ைறய வியாபாரம் நல்லபடி நடக்கேவண்டும் என்ற எண்ணம் வட்டமிட்டபடிேய இருக்கிறது.

A

ged that she is, she cannot walk straight. However, the elderly woman never tires in her

banana selling. Expecting to sell off fast, she groups more of the ripened bananas and lesser of the half ripened ones. She clears the place thinking about ways and means to retain her customers. She checks her purse for coins after removing the rotten ones. Her mind lingers on the thought of achieving a good business for the day.

நமக்ெகன்ன என்று விட்டுேபாய்விட்ட பிள்ைளகளிடம் ேபாய் ைகேயந்தி

She never begged at the door steps of her children

நிற்கவில்ைல. வயதாகிவிட்டேத என்று

who irresponsibly abandoned her. She never lazes

முடங்கிப் ேபாய்ச் சுருண்டு படுக்கவில்ைல.

around coiled down in her bed just because she has

தன் வயிற்றுப்பாட்டுக்கான வருமானத்ைதத ்

aged. The strong desire to earn her meals is forever

தாேன சம்பாரித்துக் ெகாள்ளும்

secreting in her. ‘Outstanding’ written on the pillar

சக்தி இன்னமும் அவளிடம்

nearby suits well the granny.

சுரந்துெகாண்ேட இருக்கிறது. அருகில் உள்ள தூணில் எழுதியிருக்கும் ‘அவுட் ஸ்ேடண்டிங்’ ெசாற்கள் கிழவிக்கும் ெ்பாருந்திப் ேபாகிறது. 127


கூண்டுப்பறைவ நான் (Myself a Bird in Cages) Pichinikkadu Elango ஓய்வுெபற்றபின் இப்படித்தான் ெவளிையப்பார்க்கிேறன் இப்ேபாது இந்தப்பைவக்ேவாடுதான் ெபாழுைதக்கழிக்கிேறன் இவற்ைறப்பார்ப்ப து உணவிடுவது என் ெபாழுதுேபாக்கல்ல ேபாழுைதப்ேபாக்கும் வழி இப்படி நின்று பார்க்கும்ேபாது என்னுைடய சிந்தனையின் எல்ைல விரியும் என்ைனப்பற்றியும் நிைனப்ேபன் கடந்தகாலத்ைதயும் கடத்தும்காலத்ைதயும் நிைனப்ேபன்​் பைறைவகைளயும ் நிைனப்ேபன் பறைவகளுக்கு நான்தான் துைண எனக்கும் பறைவகள்தாம் துைண பறைவகள் சுதந்தரத்தின் குறியீடு கூண்டுக்குள் அைடக்கப்பட்டிருப்பதால் பசியறிந்து உணவுவழங்குகிேறன் அருகில் ெசன்று பார்த ்துக்ெகாண்டிருக்கும்ேபாவ்து அைவேபசும்ெமாழியும்கூட எனக்குப்புரியும் பகல் இரவில் கத்தும் குருவிகைளப்பார்த ்து என்ன நிைனக்குேமஎன என்மனம்

A

fter retirement this is how I look out.

I spend time with the birds. Feeding them is not my hobby But my time pass. When I stand and gaze my thoughts expand beyond limits I think also of myself. I think of the past and the passing time. I think of these birds too. The birds have only me. And I have only the birds. I feed the symbol of feedom trapped in a cage. When I near them to observe I understand the language they speak. I used feel sad listening to the chirps and flutters. What are they thinking? Thats my concern for them surge.

128


கூண்டுப்பறைவ நான் (Myself a Bird in Cages) Pichinikkadu Elango ேவதனைப்படுவதுண்டு அதற்காகேவ நான்காட்டும் கரிசனம் அதிகம் ேநரமறிந்து ேதைவயுணர்ந ்து உணவூட்டுகிறேன் என்வாழ்க்ைகயும் கூண்டுக்குருவிகைளப்ேபால் ஓர் எல்ைலக்குள்தான் இருக்கிறது

I feel the need and time to feed them. My life too happens to be bound to an enclosure like that of the cage birds. Looking at the Sun Feeling the breeze Observing the birds happen like my breathing.

சூரியைனப்பார்ப்ப தும்

Our bonding is beyond words,

காற்ைற உணர்வ தும் பறைவகைளக்கவனிப்ப தும் சுவாசம்ேபால் நிகழ்கிறது

stronger than

என்பிள்ைளகளுக்கும் எனக்கும் இைடயில் இருக்கும் பாசத்ைதக்காட்டி லும் ெசால்லமுடியாத ஒரு பிைணப்பு எங்களிடமுள்ளது. அவர்களுக்குநான் கடனாகிப்ேபாய்விட்ேடன் பறைவகளுக்குப ் பணிெசய்வைத என்கடனாக்கிக்ெகாணே்டன் நான் தூங்கிவிட்டால் எழுப்புவது பறைவகள்தான் தூக்கம்வராதே்பாது ேநரத்ைதக்கழிப்ப து பறைவகேளாடுதான்

the affection between us and our children. I have become a debt to then. I have dedicated myself to serving the birds. When I am asleep the birds wake me up. When I dont get sleep I spend my time with the birds. I dont exist without relationships. But I remain lively because I am with the birds.

உறவுகள் இல்லாமல் நானில்ைல பறைவகேளாடு இருப்பதால் என்வாழ்க்ைக உயிர்ப்ேபாடு இருக்கிறது.

129


காத்திருக்கிேறன் (Waiting) Pichinikkadu Elango

இப்ேபாது நீங்கள ் பார்க்கும் நான் எப்படி இருந்திருப்ேபன்? விரும்பி விரும்பி அணிந்த ஆைடகள் எத்தைன? அழகூட்ட ேதடி அணிந்த அணிகலன்கள் எத்தைன? சின்ன வயதில் ெசல்லமாய் கவனிக்க எனக்கு எத்தைனேபர்! வாலிப வயதில் என் ஆைசயின் ஆகாயம் எத்தைகயது! என் ேதைவயாய் இருந்தைவ எத்தைன? ஒவெவாரு ெநாடிையயும் நிமிடத்ைதயும் கனவில் கற்பைனயில் ேதடலில் ெதாைலந்தவன் நான் ; ெதாைலந்தவன் நான். தூக்கத்ைதத்துறந்து கனவுகள் கண்டிருக்கிேறன் கனவுகளுக்காக தூக்கத்ைத இழந்திருக்கிேறன் பரபரப்பாகவும ் சுறுசுறுப்பாகவும் பயணித்தநான்தான் இப்படி ெவறுைமயாய் இருந்து பார்த ்துக்ெகாண்டிருக்கிேறன் ெவறுைமைய வியந்துெகண்டிருக்கிேறன் அப்ேபாது என்ேனாடு வறுைம இருந்த து, ேபானது. வறுைமயும் ேபாய், வாலிபமும்ேபாய்

W

onder how I would have been, the present me in the past?

Oh how many clothes I wore so eagerly? How many different beautiful ornaments I adorned? Oh how many cared for me in childhood! Oh the passion that heaped so high in my youth! Oh how many necessities of mine! In dreams and imaginations, I lost every second, every minute. Dreamt losing sleep and Slept losing dreams. So brisk and active before, I stare and awe in space with no purpose Poverty that was with me is gone. Youth gone with the poverty. Now I see nothing but vacuum. And so I am a vacuum How many scars in this being? I felt dignified hiding them in yester years. Now everything looks undignified, thinking of all the hype of the past

130


காத்திருக்கிேறன் (Waiting) Pichinikkadu Elango

இப்ேபாது எனக்குத்ெதரிவெதல்லாம் ெவறுைமதான் எனேவதான் ெவறுைமயாய் இருக்கிேறன் எத்தைன காயங்கள் இந்தக்காயத்தில்? அன்றன்ைறக்கு அைதமைறப்பைத நாகரீகமாய்க்கருதிேனன் இப்ேபாது எதுவும் எனக்கு அநாகரீகமாய்த்ெதரிகிறது ஆர்ப்பாட்டமாய் முடிந்த; இருந்த கடந்தகாலதைதெயண்ணி

I live the present

அப்பட்டமாய் அைமதியாய் நிகழ்த ்துகிேறன ் நிகழ்காலத்ைத.

Now the dresses are no more

இப்படியா இருந்ேதன்? இல்ைல இல்ைல உள்ளும் ெவளியும் சுைமகளால் கனத்திருந்ேதன் சுகங்களால் களித்திருந்ேதன்.

blantantly silent Was I like this before? No No In and out I was heavy with burden I rejoiced with pleasures.

a burden but the dotage And only to renounce that burden I keep gazng at the sky. Time will help, thus I wait.

இப்ேபாது ஆைடச்சுைமயில்ைல முதுைமதான் சுைம அந்தச்சுைமைய இறக்கிைவக்கத்தான் இப்படி அண்ணாந்துபார்க்கிேறன். காலம்தான் ைகெகாடுக்கும் காத்திருக்கிேறன்.

131


杜珠成

洪孟珠 冯焕好

Goi Wang Firn

Pichinikkadu Elango

Low Cheng Qwee Huang Wei Hsuan

R SathiKannan

Ngai Mun Hong

SImon Tay

Vairavan Ramanathan

T. Rajagopal

Patrick Tung

William Wan

Tiah Ling Valence Sim

Yohanna Abdullah

Ng Wei Chin

KTM Iqbal

Writers, Photographers and Translators 蓉子

Mokther Haji Hashim

吴韦材

Nicholas Choy Joey Lu

Nadiputra Almahdi Shelly Bryant

何乃强

Chew Lin Lin

Jayanthi Sankar

132


English Writers (names are arranged in alphabetical order by surname)

T. Rajagopal T. Rajagopal is nearing 69 years. After having a good all round education and vast practical exposure both on corporate life and senior management level and an academic he devote a length of time as a Hon Sec of a VWO. Today he has rejoined working life and presently the General Manager of an SME Safety Training and Professional Services Company as part of active aging and contributing.

Dr. William Wan Dr. William Wan is the General Secretary of the Singapore Kindness Movement. He is a retired lawyer and an ambassador for active aging, having won the Active Ager Award of the Council for Third Age in 2011. He is also very active in charity work as chairman of the Prison Fellowship Singapore and on several boards of charity organizations. He is a grandfather of 3 teenagers.

Yohanna Abdullah Yohanna Abdullah is a writer for 25 years having launched her career as a journalist with The Straits Times. She had her own editorial and design consultancy Write Design and did a lot of TV script writing and writing for Malay Muslim organisations. Currently, she is employed as a publications executive at Club HEAL where she is a mental health advocate and conduct peer support groups and does expressive therapy. She has written and co-written seven books her latest being Shattered, We HEAL II and its Malay version, a book about mental illness and recovery.She wrote a play ‘Naked’ staged in March 2015 by Teater Kami about her road to recovery as a person with bipolar disorder for 17 years.

133


Chinese Writers (names are arranged in alphabetical order by Hanyu Pinyin )

杜珠成

何乃强医生

杜珠成(杜诚)祖籍福建晋江,新加坡 公民。南大中文系毕业。历任南大中文 系 助教,国防部、南侨、圣尼格拉华文教 师。新加坡艺术理事会理事、新加坡文艺研 究 会 发 起 人 兼 秘 书 ,新 加 坡 中 学 华 文 教 师 会 理 事 长 。《 中 教 学 报 》、《 中 教 丛书》主编。东西亚华文教学研讨会 咨 询 委 员 。 厦 大 海 外 教 育 学 院 特 约 研 究 院 员 、泉 州 师 范 学 院 客 座 教 授 。著 有《马路之歌》、《美丽的国土》、 《火》、 《花芭 山》、 《随笔》、 《母亲和孩子们》、 《归来》、 《行踪 一、二、三》集、 《文艺随笔》。

新 加 坡 出 生 。是 我 国 儿 科 专 家,任 大 巴 窑 政 府 医 院 及 竹 脚 医 院 新 生 儿 科 主 任 25年, 大 学 临 床 教 学 30多 年 ,退 休 前 为 新 加 坡 国 立 大 学 医 学 院 副 院 长 及 竹 脚 医 院 儿 科 首 席 主 任 。1994年 受 聘 为 广 州 暨 南 大 学 客 座 教 授 。 1995年 受 聘 为 广东省妇幼医院及广东省妇幼保健院名誉院 长。曾任《中国当代儿科杂志》副编委, 《新 加 坡 医 学 杂 志 》 编 委 。目 前 为 《 中 华 新 生 儿 科 杂 志 》 编 委 。 曾 发 表 200多 篇 学 术 文 章 。 联 合早报 <四方八面> <父母心> 专栏作者。新 加 坡 华 文 报 咨 询 团 成 员 。常 受 邀 出 席 国 际 医 学 会 议 , 在 大 会 发 言 讲 学。获 2014 新 加 坡 文 学 奖(华文,非小说组)

冯焕好 冯焕好,出生于新加 坡。祖 籍广东省南海县 。教 育 界 务 服 务 多 年 ,教 导 华 文 与 文 学 。1974年 开 始 在 华 中 初 级 学 院 务,出 任 华文 部 主任,1987 年擢升该学院副院长。 1997年任达善中学校 长 。2 0 0 1 年 出 任 南 洋 初 级 学 院 院 长 至 2 0 0 5 退 休 。退 休 后 担 任 教 育 学 院 硕 士 班 兼 职 讲 师 ,指 导《优质教育管理》课程。执教之余,爱好阅读 和写作,笔名何濛。擅写散文,杂文和游记并出 版 过 多 部 集 子 。热 心 推 动 华 文 文 化 活 动 ,担 任 教育部华文改革委员会员 (2003-05),教育部推 广华文学习委员会写作组主席(2005-08)福建 会 馆 五 校 双 文 化 课 程 委 员 ( 2 0 0 6 - 2 0 1 0 )等 。 今 致力于推广《弟子规》经典教育。

洪孟珠博士 新加坡大学荣誉学士,美国夏威夷大学文学硕 士 ,新 加 坡 国 立 大 学 应 用 语 言 博 士 。曾 任 新 加 坡的中学教师、大学讲师、教育部视 学 与 副 署 长 。服 务 教 育 界 超 过 30年 。在 值 期 间,曾 获 新 加 坡 政 府 颁 赐 行 政 功 绩( 铜 )奖 和 长 期 服 务 奖 ,也 获 颁 国 际 佛 光 会 杰 出 妇 女 文 教 奖 。 退 休后常受国内外团体邀请,讲演有关个人 修 养 、 夫 妻 关 系 、亲 子 教 育 和 老 人 的 课 题 。

孔祥乐 已越“从心所欲”之龄。公中毕业,入师训。曾 执教鞭多年,后从商。虽然就读教会学校,却不 受其教义所引导 。中年信奉佛教,参加佛总佛学 班 时,曾义务担任一些佛教刊物编辑。晚年回 祖籍寻 根 ,发 觉 祖 宗 思 想 深 邃 ,对 现 代 人 待 人 接物、言行思想甚有帮助,可与佛教出世教 义,相 辅 相 成。所以也希望在有生之年,多多 理解儒家思想。

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Chinese Writers

蓉子 蓉子,新加坡专栏作家曾任新加坡作家协会副会 长。生于潮州。8岁离开中国,又从马来西亚到新 加坡,现居上海。写作四十余年,出版作品 30余 部。1978年受邀参与电视台现场直播"两种语文的 教育问题",与新加坡总理李光耀对话。同年获得 小说第一奖,受到蒂凡那先生(第三任新加坡总 统)颁奖。 小说《轨外》拍成电视剧。 小说《又是雨季》被教育部选为中学生假期辅助 读本。 散文《榴莲》入选新加坡教科书。 2010 年受上海巿政府之邀为<世博会诗歌选集> 评委及作序。 2013 年广东省评为"2013 年十大慈善人物"。 杂志<天下潮商>评为潮界"巾帼精英 60人"。

吴韦材 简介吴韦材,1951年出生,新加坡作家,早年于 英国进修美术设计,自 80年代初期背包环球旅 行后开始专业写作,著有小说、散文、游记等20 余册。97年南极之旅后,赴北京电影学院进修电 影导演专业,归国后组《红风筝》剧坊,并投入 舞台教学与编导工作。剧作有《无耳》、《我爱猪 猪 》、《 罗 生 门 》 、《 友 善 角 落 》 、《 假 凤 虚 凰 》等。近 年 吴氏曾旅居北京,现居新加坡,从 事乐活指导、写作及翻译。最新著作为 2009 年 《爱的系列》三册,由玲子传媒出版。

钟袁见 (资料从缺)

135


Malay Writers

Mokther Haji Hashim Mokther Haji Hashim or Keatar HM, is a TV and stage actor, writer, producer, director and drama educator. He first debut 30 years ago as a rookie stage actor for Panggung Negara. He is one of the founders of Teater Kami, a bilingual theatre group. He had experience working for both Malay and English theatre productions. He is a versatile actor, able to carry character roles as well as comic ones for various Suria Channel programmes. Recently, Keatar has crossed over to appear in Channel 5’s dramas including in Mata-Mata A New Generation and a lead role for Pay Day.

Nadiputra Almahdi

Scriptwriter, Director, Producer, Malay Drama Unit Mediacorp - 1983 hingga 2000. Cultural Medallion Receipient (Drama) 1986. Awarded the highest Malay literary Award - ANUGERAH TUN SERI LANANG 2013. Conducted scriptwriting workshops for radio, television and teater. Consultant, Instructor, producer Radio Television Brunei (2001 to 2003). Wrote more than 300 radio, television, teater scripts, poems. Manage Tampines West Community Club Harmoni Orkid Choir, Theatre 2000 Drama Group. Instructor Speech and Drama – Junyuan Primary School (2011 – 2014) Instructor Speech and Drama Bukit Panjang Government High School (2011 – 2013) Artistic Director Sri Mamanda Bangsawan Pte Ltd.

136


Tamil Writers

K.T.M. Iqbal

R SathiKannan

K.T.M. IQBAL (1940) - has authored seven collections of poetry. Has contributed short stories, essays, children's songs and poems to the region's leading newspapers, magazines and Radio Singapore's Poet's Corner and ' Let Us Sing ' programmes. His poem THANNEER (Water) was selected for display in MRT trains (1995) and for exihibition at EXPO 2000 in Hanover, Germany. His awards include South East Asia Write Award (2001) and the Cultural Medallion Award (2014).

A Singaporean. Engineer by profession. Holding a Master Degree in Engineering from NUS, and a Master Degree in Business Administration. Passion for Music and Literature. Authored a Tamil language poem book tilted ‘Innum Meethamirukkirathu’ (2014) and regularly writing poems in Tamil language. Some of Sathi’s poems were published in Singapore Tamil News daily Tamil Murasu.

Krishnamurthi Mathangi

Born in Tamil Nadu, Rama Vairavan came to Singapore in 1998 (year) to work and became a Citizen of Singapore in 2007 (year). He is passionate about Tamil Literature and has been writing since 1998. Working as a software engineer, he writes poetry, short stories, essays in Tamil Murasu, Tamil Nesan and Internet Magazines. Besides being active in Association of Singapore Tamil Writers (ASTW) as its assistant secretary, he has also published five books in Tamil. His books include 2 Short Story collections, 2 Poetry collections and one Essay collection. His short stories and poetry have won many prizes. He won the Singapore Literature Prize 2012 for his poetry book ‘Kavithai Kuzhandaikal’ in the Tamil category. He is 53 years old in 2014.

Writes speculative and literary fiction, as well as classical and modern poetry. Her works have been published and won prizes in literary magazines in India, Singapore, and Malaysia. Her poems and stories have been anthologised in India, Canada, and Singapore. She conducts short story and poetry workshops. Her work has been included in the Singapore Junior College curriculum by the Ministry of Education.

Pichinikkadu Elango A well-known author and Poet, has poetry collections (modern and traditional), essays, a book of personal quotes, poetic novel and dramas.

Vairavan Ramanathan

He held the post ‘Agricultural Officer’, ‘Farm Radio Reporter’ in All India Radio, India. ‘Producer - Presenter’ in SBC and as Editor of Singai chuddar, currently as editor-in-charge for ‘Puthiya Nila’ a tamil Monthly. He has written and staged several Dramas in Singapore with different organisations. Received numerous awards and prizes for his poetic contributions in Singapore (Golden Point, Eco Music Challenge) and in India.Founder of ‘Kavimaalai’ in Singapore started in 2000. Vibrant speaker cum writer.

137


Photographers

Nicholas Choy started shooting in 2008 with a plastic toy camera until he finally owned one in University. A self-taught photographer, he dabbled in many genres but eventually gravitated towards street photography and street still life. With a keen interest in the microhistory of Singapore, Nicholas attempts to document and understand the evolution of the Singapore society and her people through his lenses. When not roaming the streets in search of his next shot, Nicholas can be found museum crawling on the weekends. Goi Wang Firn is a mother of two, Wang Firn first delve into photography in her days at Hwa Chong Junior College. An amateur photographer who still shoots occasionally now, she enjoys capturing heart warming moments to remind herself to always appreciate what we already have. Huang Wei Hsuan is a R&D engineer in an oil drilling service company. His passion in photography and camera collection grew during his days as a graduate student. He appreciates the analog process despite its inconveniences. Low Cheng Qwee is a photographer who enjoys shooting outdoors. He also enjoys independent travelling and documenting life in other countries with his camera. His approach to photography is: Simple, Natural, Appealing and Positive (SNAP). He feels that a good photograph should be able to touch a person’s heart wordlessly.

Joey Lu a sales manager who picked up photography on a whim after handling a friend’s DSLR during a sporting event in 2006. He got into shooting films in late 2007, intrigued by the analogue process. Since then, he has been shooting larger and larger film formats regularly for the past 5 years. His main focus is on surreal landscapes and portraiture, other subjects and themes being side thoughts during his photographic process. Ng Wei Chin is a Singaporean, and has a background in engineering and film production. She sets up The Very Quiet Studio in 2007 and initiated projects such as Sound Sañña and “Older but Wiser” apart from video productions in documentaries. Even with the advent of new technology, she sees “old” and “progressiveness” do not contradict. That applies for civilization and even technology. Ngai Mun Hong has been interested in photography since he was in primary school. Since 2008, his passion towards photography grew stronger, he then took up photography seriously. His favorite photography styles are cityscapes, landscapes, night photography and events photography. He loves both digital and film photography. His skills include developing B & W negatives and processing images using Photoshop. Lately, he has been capturing urban transformation of Singapore.

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Photographers

Valence Sim is a new citizen who came over from Taiwan at age 7. As he grows older, he began wondering why there are so many elderly people on the street and also curious about their life stories. 2 years ago, he started documenting the elderly in Singapore through photos. Every weekend, he walks around Singapore chatting with them and understanding their life stories. Through this exercise, he learns how Singapore was like in the past. He has also volunteered with Photovoice, conducting workshop for the mentally ill. Simon Tay started making photos with his mobile phone a few years ago. He was very reluctant to move on to a Digital SLR camera, he had thought that he should practice with his mobile phone until he was “good enough to make a proper exposure” and then shoot with film. He has been experimenting with many old style photography techniques that were used from as early as 1839. He like to capture the ordinary moments in the everyday life. http://5iftysf.tumblr.com Tiah Ling is a doctor at Changi Hospital with the A&E department. She is a hobby photographer who enjoys perceiving life around her through the lens. Patrick Tung’s main research area is in semiconductor processes. He is an analog photography enthusiast who shoots with film. He got interested in photography when he was in secondary school using the Sony Mavica back in 2001. Since then, his passion in photography grew and he shoots a variety of subjects that interest him.

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Translators

Shelly Bryant

Chew Lin Lin

Shelly Bryant divides her year between Shanghai and Singapore,

Chew Lin Lin is Bachelor Science degree holder from National

working as a writer, researcher, and translator. She is the author

University of Singapore Mathematics Department. She learns

of nine volumes of poetry, Cyborg Chimera, Under the Ash,

Malay as a 2nd Language at her O and A Levels.

Voices of the Elders, Harps Upon Willows, The Lined Palm, Pine the Passing, Numina, Nymph, and Unnatural Selection, and two

Jayanthi Sankar

travel guides, one to the city of Suzhou entitled Suzhou Basics,

Jayanthi Sankar has been creatively active for the past twenty-

and another co-authored with Nick Land and Lily Sun, entitled

one years in short stories, novels, translation and essays. Several

Open Door Guide to Shanghai. Her The Classical Gardens of

of her books have been awarded by renowned organisations. Her

Shanghai is a part of the RAS Monograph Series, published by

short story “Read Singapore”, published in the quarterly magazine

Hong Kong University Press.

Ceriph – ISSUE TWO – 2010, has been included in the anthology

Shelly has translated Sheng Keyi’s novels Northern Girls and Fields of White for Penguin Books, and Death Fugue for Giramondo Press, Chew Kok Chang’s short story collection Other Cities, Other Lives and You Jin’s A Life in Words, Mum is Where the Heart is, and In Time, Out of Place for Epigram Books, Fan Wen’s Land of Mercy for Rinchen Books, Li Xinfeng’s China in Africa for HSRC, and Li Na’s memoir, My Life, for Penguin Books. Her translations of Khoo Seok Wan’s poetry were featured in the exhibition A Life in Poems by the National Library Board in Singapore. Shelly has also edited a collection of speculative poetry, A Demon in My View (Alban Lake), and a haiku anthology, Equatorial Calm (Celestial Books). Her poetry has appeared in journals, magazines, and websites around the world, as well as in several

The Epigram Books Collection of Best New Singaporean Short Stories: Volume One. The same short story was translated to be included in the Russian anthology: To Go to S’pore, contemporary writing from Singapore, edited by Kirill Cherbitski. She has started writing more in English in recent years. Having written primarily in Tamil, she has authored more than 35 books. Three of her short story collections have been shortlisted for the Singapore Literature Prize. Her works have been published by several magazines such as The Wagon and in opinion. She has a unique interest in other cultures, especially the Chinese culture. She has been invited to participate in panel discussions in various festivals including Singapore Writers Festival and Seemanchal International Literary Festival. Born and brought up in India, she has lived in Singapore since 1990.

art exhibitions, including dark ’til dawn, Things Disappear, and Studio White • Exhibition 2011. Shelly’s translation of Sheng Keyi’s Northern Girls was long-listed for the Man Asian Literary Prize in 2012, and her translation of You Jin’s In Time, Out of Place was shortlisted for the Singapore Literature Prize in 2016. Shelly’s poetry collections are available at the Alban Lake website and Math Paper Press.

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Appreciation

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With Appreciation 鸣谢

2014 English Forum Venue Sponsor

With the Support of

葉美皇 居士

1st Season Exhibition Venue Sponsor

With the Support of

葉美皇 居士

Exhibition Partner ANALOG FILM LAB

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With Appreciation 鸣谢

2015 Chinese Forum Venue Sponsor

With the Support of

2nd Season Exhibition Venue Sponsors

With the Support of

Exhibition Partners

ANALOG FILM LAB

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With Appreciation 鸣谢

English and Chinese Forum 2017 Venue Sponsor

With the Support of

3rd Season Exhibition Venue Sponsor

With the Support of

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Special Thanks All Participating Painters All participating photographers All Participating Writers LianHe WanBao c3a Council of the 3rd age Dr Ang Beng Choo Azman Shariff Dr Robin Chan Eva Chang Chua Ying Diana Ser Dong NongZheng Ho Woon Ho Ismahairie Putra Ishak Kalthom ABD Latiffa Kindness Movement Julia Lim Sze Mien

Dr Neo Han Yee Dr. Ng Wai Chong Ng Wai Choy Anthony O'Dempsey Ong Chang Woei Pek Kim Choo Quek YongSiu Dr Radiah Salim Shantha Ratii Shouri Veluri Sri Ghanavenothan Retnam Tan Chin Siong Tan Qing Lun Tin PeiLing Vijaya Nadesan Dr William Wan Elaine Wu

Ang Ping Ping Chan Kerk Chew Lin Lin Vincent Chua Eusope Junn (Ka Junn) Nicole Fabry Fu Yiren Grace Goh Goi Wang Firn Lestin Heng Ernest How Elizabeth Huang Jinyi Hena Biswas Huang Shuangxi Helen Ing Ke Shuqin Jeremy Kong Tommy Kong Queenie Kou Le Matt Lee Huay Leng Andrew Lee Kum Chew Lew Yusie Patricia Liaw Lily Lien Lim Hee Joo Lim Siew Yuen (Gobbs) Lim Yean Yen Elizabeth Lim Ling Poh Foong Lo Sheng Belinda Low

Loy HuiYi Joey Lu M Gopi Clara Mok Myint Tseng Nadiputra Ahmahdi Ashley Ng Ng Cheng Cheng Ng Kang Yong Ng Meow Ling Ngai Mun Hong Eva Ngiam Cryst Oh Candice Phang Pushpa Latha Devi Rupbiny Jayaseelan Dr Sng Bee Bee Tan Siew Yan Derek Tan Melissa Tan Suriana Tan Simon Tay Teo Ming Ping Susan Teo Angeline Teoh Tan Ping Patrick Tung Chris Underwood Elaine Wu Wu Peijia Doris Yew Yong Xinyi

With Friends

Cover illustration by Poh Ziqun

Layout and design

www.iheartbrew.com BUSINES S SAVVY DESIGN

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