Laura Jane Lee

Young Laura Jane Lee surprised us with her recently published collection flinch & air (October 2021), which is as much about love as it is a unique exploration of Asian female identity. Against the backdrop of the mass protests in Hong Kong, she explores Asian women’s cultural, political and social struggle, particularly that of her female ancestors, telling a story of indebtedness, courage, resilience and sacrifice. At the same time, she delves in a clear, fresh way into the sensuality, tenderness, madness and uncertainty of romantic love. Lee writes in English and in Cantonese. In her poems, the two languages enter into a dialogue, and she also engages in discussion with poets like Frank O’Hara and Reginald Shepherd, her great inspirations. “This poetry has an uncanny lightness and ease of movement. It is sharp, funny and deeply seeing.” (Mark Waldron)