The resurgence of Taiwanese language music　　 　　The people of Taiwan compare themselves to silvergrass, a resilient plant that grows even in winter, and the hardy Taiwanese can now proudly proclaim their miracles of rapid economic growth and political democratization to the world, miracles achieved despite the adversity of international isolation. There is a renewed sense of pride at being Taiwanese, and suddenly the Taiwanese dialect—long eclipsed by Mandarin Chinese as the language of high culture and education—is no longer a synonym for a lack of refinement.　　 　　As one result, meandering Taiwan melodies have entered the century’s melancholy consciousness. Perhaps the best example is the song “Going Forward,” which comes out of the haze of Taiwan’s history to describe the confidence and independence of the new Taiwanese of the 1990s. Taiwanese songs are leaving behind their sadness, and are looking towards the clouds and the sky to describe the beauty and charm of Taiwan. These songs take adversity with equanimity, and embrace Taiwanese joy, happiness, wealth and prosperity. As Taiwanese songs depart from sighing, narrow thoughts of self-pity, they are beginning to sketch a colorful and vital portrait of the Taiwanese people.