Beyond the Blue Gate: Recollections of a Political Prisoner

Teo Soh Lung's book should be read by all people who are interested in democracy and the rule of law. Not only is it a poignant personal account of official ill treatment, but it is a brilliant testimony to the cruelty of authoritarianism, even, indeed especially - when it comes in the guise of legal due process. This is perhaps the most shocking aspect of her story: the abuse of the law in a republic which is democratic in theory, but sacrifices its most democratic citizens to the whims of the rulers. -- Ian Buruma, Henry R Luce Professor of Democracy, Human Right and Journalism, Bard College LawyerTeo Soh Lung's memoir of her 21 May 1987 arrest and framing by the Singapore authorities as part of the so-called 'Marxist Conspiracy' is a remarkable document. Not only does it show how a person of courage and integrity can speak truth to power, but it also illustrates how that power corrupts and destroys the souls of those who wield it unscrupulously. One day a Singaporean Truth and Reconciliation Commission will determine the truth of the PAP years. Until this happens, this memoir will serve as an essential benchmark. -- Peter CareyBehind the Blue Gate documents vividly Soh Lung's intellectual and emotional awareness and reflections of a person in captivity. How power blinds justice is nothing new in the world of politics. But Soh Lung's accounts impressively details and transmits viscerally her physical and psychological journey whilst in detention. This book is a must-read. It not only gives the reader insights to the human condition, but it also enables one to reflect on one's moral capacity when facing the hurdles and challenges in standing up for one's beliefs. It's also very important to have this literature. Thanks, Soh Lung for taking the trouble to write it all down. Reading the accounts amazes me how sharp your memory was. It is testimony of how human cruelty can be etched so deeply in the human psyche. -- Alvin Tan