Behind The Book – Singapore Literature Edition With Kirstin Chen
Bury What We Cannot Take was shortlisted for the Singapore Literature Prize 2020.
This was a lovely surprise. My book came out in early 2018, and most book prizes are given out annually, so I didn’t expect to be under consideration in 2020.
Tell us more about what prompted you to write Bury What We Cannot Take.
Years ago, I was out to dinner with a close friend who told me the story of how his family had come to flee China in the 50’s. His father, who was a child at the time, witnessed his grandmother defacing the portrait of Chairman Mao with a hammer and reported her to authorities, as he’d been taught to do. The family got in trouble and decided to leave the country, but when they went to get the necessary exit permits, they were told to leave one child behind as proof of their intention to return. This story really stuck with me, so much so that I decided (with my friend’s permission) to use it as the premise for my novel.
What are your thoughts on literary awards and prizes?
I’m all for anything that brings attention to more books!
Singapore Literature Prize is a prestigious award. How does the award change the reception of one’s work?
I’m grateful to have received this recognition from Singaporean judges and readers. Even though I’ve lived in the U.S for a long time, this book was written not for western readers necessarily, but for readers like me—people with ties to the region I wrote about, people of the Chinese diaspora. So it means a lot that the book has resonated with the audience I wrote it for.
Thank you for your answers. One final question: why did you agree to this interview?
I’m always happy to engage with Singaporean students. I’ve had great experiences teaching and giving workshops and readings at secondary schools and universities in Singapore.
About the author
Kirstin Chen is the award-winning, best-selling author of the novels Bury What We Cannot Take and Soy Sauce for Beginners. Born and raised in Singapore, she lives in San Francisco, where she is working on a novel about the counterfeit luxury handbag trade.