A WOODEN HUT IN THE JUNGLE seemed the right place to start an Asia-Pacific literary group. It was a classic Asian scene: green paddyfields stretching as far as the eye could see, glaring bright sunshine flooding through window-less sidewalls, and a breeze carrying the scent of temple flowers. And everywhere, in all directions, one could detect the unique, lush energy of Asia: somehow timelessly calm and feverishly dynamic at the same time. A more relaxing yet creative place than Ubud, Bali, would have been hard to find.
The first meeting included a host of people who were interested in the literary arena, from fresh-faced emerging authors to widely-read professors of literature. The discussion started with a blank slate: do we need an umbrella organisation at all, and if so, what form should it take? The conversations were lively, enthusiastic and creative. And the answer was clear: yes, let's do it; and no, let's not limit it to any particular form.
The second meeting was more tightly focused. Present were individuals who had a personal interest in literature, but who were also senior, well-connected people in their fields. Discussion was focused on getting the basics right: structure and funding.
Prime mover behind the meetings was Australian literary catalyst Jane Camens, who founded Hong Kong's now famous literary festival with its focus on Asian literature. Indonesian-Chinese author Xu Xi was nominated as chair, and gracefully accepted. Xu Xi will remains as Chair of the APWP until the next meeting of the founders in 2008. This will be held in conjunction with a literary event in Asia, yet to be announced.
By the time the meeting ended, there remained more questions than answers, but this was not seen in any way as a negative thing: indeed, what participants felt, judging by their comments afterwards, was the excitement of having glimpsed the huge potential in tapping the creative energy of Asia-Pacific.
While this short summary of the meetings does not constitute official minutes (which will be available later), it serves to commemorate an important event: a new venture has been gently birthed.
Let's watch it grow.