The Fiction of Colonial Malaya

This study of the fictional writings of four British colonial officials in Malaya, Frank Swettenham, Hugh Clifford , George Maxwell and Anthony Burgess, demonstrates how the works can still reflect positive reflection in postcolonial Malaysia, where their works are still favourably read. This is an important survey of a neglected chapter in literary history. The critical focus of postcolonialism has hitherto largely avoided a consideration of the considerable body of Anglophone fiction that emerged from pre-independence Malaya. This study rectifies that omission, offering an illuminating assessment of the work of four major writers, and arguing persuasively for the re-evaluation of their writing as part of a more general account of the development of Malaysian culture. This book makes a vital contribution to its field, and will be a valuable resource for scholars in search of an authoritative guide to the way the country was represented in the writings of its colonial masters.

Publisher: Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia

Paperback

2016

ISBN: 9789838618458