"Writing Asia"

On the 23rd of May, the Sydney Writers' Festival hosted an amazing panel called "Writing Asia". Hosted by Nocholas Jose and featuring the talents of Brian Castro, Tom Cho, Merlinda Bobis and Adam Aitken, this panel discussed how "Australia has written off Asia for almost 200 years; written off the countries of Asia, with cultural traditions of thousands of years. Perhaps it is time to write Asia; to write within it and of it, rather than just about it. The word Asia is found, after all, in the word Australia. If Australia wants to refigure itself in its relationship to the countries of Asia, to become part of Asia, as it were, then Asian must also be part of Australia." (Brian Castro, Writing Asia an Auto/biography, published by the Australian Defence Forces Academy, 1996). 

Brian Castro, in particular, gave a wonderful talk, discussing his own experiences of both reading and writing Asian-Australian literature. He encouraged the development of individualised writing separated from the expectations and conventions surrounding this area of literature. The upcoming release of his ninth book, The Bath Fugues, is an exciting and significant addition to Australia's literary scene.

And of course Tom Cho! My Gosh, he really is exceptional. Through a very witty powerpoint deconstruction of language, and a dramatic reading from his new book "Look Who's Morphing", he really did steal the show. Australia has never before seen such a young and talented writer.

Not to mention Casula Powerhouse itself. Built in 1951 as a supplementary power station, it is a dramatic and persuasive industrial building. In 1994, Casula Powerhouse began an exciting new life as an arts centre. It sits directly next to a oft-used train line, adding to the imposing sensation of the centre.

Tom Cho will be reading at the Gallery of New South Wales tomorrow as part of their "Art After Hours" initiative, beginning at 17:30. Also, "Look Who's Morphing" will be launched by William Yang on Thursday the 28th at the Asia-Australia Arts Association (or Gallery 4A) at 18:00. The address for Gallery 4A is 181-187 Hay Street. I beyond recommend attending these events, as the charismatic Tom will simply sweep you off your feet.