A literary star

In the realm of contemporary Southeast Asian literature, Narisapongse Rakwattananont is a luminary figure, capturing this year’s prestigious SEA Write Award with his compelling collection of short stories Family Comes First.

This Thai writer’s literary prowess delves into the intricacies of Chinese-Thai family dynamics, challenging age-old traditions and societal norms. The SEA Write Organising Committee, composed of seven discerning judges, unanimously bestowed this honour recently upon Narisapongse’s work, recognising its profound exploration of issues embedded within Chinese-Thai culture.

The judges lauded Family Comes First for its poignant critique of patriarchal masculinity and its impact on family relationships. Through 11 captivating short stories, Narisapongse unravels the complexities faced by the characters, especially women ensnared in the clutches of…