Honoured Writer

It can be said that Chris Tse (he/him), Samesame’s 2023 Honoured Writer, is the very embodiment of QUEEREVOLUTION.

He has his fingers on myriad pulsing vibes; he is an exemplar, a passionate supporter and mentor of aspiring and established creatives; in a world of wrongs he’s an advocate for what’s right and just. He loves poetry and word making. His three full-length books thus far from Auckland University Press have considered themes of personal and cultural identity, Chinese heritage and immigration in Aotearoa, racism, queer sex and sexuality, homophobia, pop culture. The volumes have been searing and sexy, candid and moving.

He is our thirteenth Poet Laureate, a number lucky and auspicious in his family. He is the first queer, Asian writer in the role which he describes as an incredible and life-changing opportunity. He is primed to make poetry part of our everyday lives. Join Chris Tse in conversation with Michael Giacon.

Presented by Samesame But Different Literary Festival 2023