Kevin Kwan, renowned author of “Crazy Rich Asians,” recently engaged in a lively conversation at Seattle’s Town Hall, where he delved into his latest book, “Lies and Weddings.”
In a unique format designed for the Seattle Arts & Lectures series, interviewer Jane Hyo-Sung Park guided a captivating discussion that expanded beyond the book to encompass a variety of topics, from his writing journey to cultural observations.
Prior to the main event on May 29, Kwan mingled with fans at a book-signing reception, showcasing his amiable personality.
The discussion spanned approximately 90 minutes, during which Kwan candidly shared his thoughts on politics, aesthetics, and the writing process.
One striking revelation was Kwan’s differing preferences from the style his audience has come to adore.
Despite being acknowledged for his innovative narrative in “Crazy Rich Asians,” Kwan admitted that this genre—a blend of rich lifestyles and travelogue—does not align with his personal writing style.
He noted that the publishing industry often pressures writers to maintain a consistent theme, which may restrict their creative freedom.
While Kwan enjoys writing bestsellers, he expressed a desire to explore different genres.
He recalled being turned down for a book of poetry and revealed that an essay reflecting his friend’s artwork resonated more with his authentic voice.
Interestingly, Kwan positioned his optimism at a modest “two” on a scale of one to ten, surprising many in the audience who expect joy and humor from his work.
In a humorous remark, he mentioned, “Maybe when I’m retired, I can actually write for fun,” hinting at the pressures that accompany writing for commercial success.
Kwan described the underlying agenda of his books, emphasizing that they are designed to satirize the wealthy while retaining an underlying empathy.
His latest series, beginning with “Sex and Vanity,” intertwines beloved literary themes with a modern multiracial twist, reflecting his intentions to re-contextualize classic tales.
Kwan’s passion for observing and documenting trends was evident during the discussion, and he shared an affection for libraries, which were a refuge for him as a child.
His own family’s immigration experience shaped his early love for literature, as he often found solace in libraries while his parents worked.
Kwan’s early inclination to catalog cultural trends made his high school publications—such as a “who’s in” and “who’s out” list—feel like precursors to his current work.
Describing his mind as a “garbage can of information,” he humorously likened his personality to Oscar the Grouch, a character integrated into one of the footnotes in his latest book.
Kwan shared that, despite his mother being a piano teacher, he regretted never learning to play the piano, attributing his hesitation to stage fright rather than a lack of interest.
Throughout the event, he maintained his characteristic humor and graciousness, ensuring the atmosphere remained comfortable for both the host and attendees.
He noted the modern approach to audience engagement was different from the past, where individuals would stand to ask questions—an observation that seemed to leave him somewhat longing for a traditional personal connection.
Diversity and representation were key themes in Kwan’s conversation.
Passionately advocating for diverse stories in media, he encouraged attendees to voice their desires to Hollywood regarding the kind of representation they want to see.
He highlighted the industry’s ongoing “existential crisis” as it largely favors blockbuster films over more inclusive narratives.
Reflecting on the long gap between influential films about Asian narratives, such as “Joy Luck Club” and “Crazy Rich Asians,” he is committed to not letting another sizable interval ensue before further adaptations of his work reach the big screen.
Currently, Kwan is actively developing a television series based on his book series and a follow-up film to “Crazy Rich Asians,” in addition to a musical adaptation—an ambitious undertaking that he noted is quite time-consuming.
Delving into his writing process, Kwan shared insights about his disciplined approach.
During the creation of a new book, he intentionally limits external distractions, focusing solely on non-fiction literature while avoiding excessive media influences.
Kwan dedicates around eight hours each day to writing, a practice he defines as more than just a job; it’s an immersive creative journey.
To stave off writer’s block, he enriches his life with various art forms, emphasizing the importance of diverse influences on creativity.
He identified himself as a voracious reader, primarily of non-fiction, and even authored his own non-fiction work titled “Luck: The Essential Guide.”
Asked about an alternate career path, Kwan revealed he might have pursued banking, following in his family’s footsteps, though his passion lies firmly in writing.
Reflecting on his identity, Kwan attributes his versatility and comfort in various cultures to his immigrant background.
He explained how the experience of relocation from Singapore to the United States contributed to his adaptability and openness to new environments.
As someone who has navigated between different worlds—rooted in both Singaporean and American cultures—Kwan’s observations often critique societal norms with a mix of humor and thoughtfulness.
Interestingly, while Kwan’s characters may sometimes exhibit snobbish traits, he himself rejects superficial judgments and aims to delve deeper into the motivations behind people’s actions.
“I just observe and listen, and I just put it on the page,” he explained, defining his writing philosophy.
The evening with Kwan left audiences with profound insights into not just his career and the entertainment industry but also the broader context of cultural representation and expectation in the modern world.
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