Nationalism is what gives nation-states their power. It’s like a belief created by all members of the nation. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the nation together. It has a light side, which inspires and liberates. It has a dark side, which oppresses and destroys. In this week’s episode of “The History of Singapore”, PJ Thum heads to a long time ago in a country far, far away to illustrate nationalism, its significance to decolonisation, how nationalism and decolonisation are double-edged swords which have defined Singapore and Malaysia, and why the price of freedom is eternal vigilance against tyranny. Please send questions, comments, and feedback to thehistoryofsingapore@gmail.com or visit thehistoryofsingapore.com.
This episode took by far the longest to write, but might have been the most fun. After I started writing about nationalism in Singapore, I felt that I then had to explain what nationalism was, but more importantly, why it matters so much to Singapore. So I started writing an explanation of nationalism, and this grew and grew until it became an episode of its own. Then I felt it was much too dry and theoretical. So I rewrote it several times, and got very frustrated trying to make nationalism relatable. Then I hit upon a metaphor, from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away….
This might be the riskiest episode of the series in terms of the writing and structure. I’m not sure it will work. But it might end up being the most fun to write and record. I hope you enjoy it.