Mission

Kundiman is dedicated to the creation, cultivation and promotion of Asian American poetry.

Kundiman?

Kundiman is the classic form of Filipino love song—or so it seemed to colonialist forces in the Philippines. In fact, in Kundiman, the singer who expresses undying love for his beloved is actually singing for love of country. As an organization dedicated to providing a nurturing space for Asian American poets, we find in this name inspiration to create and support poetic expression.

Marilyn Chin performs at the Faculty/Fellow Reading


To construct this rich and deep network of emerging Asian American talent as we are embarking upon careers in such a nurturing greenhouse is a remarkable accomplishment. I am enormously impressed and humbled by the quality of the readings by both the students and the panel of distinguished faculty who mentored and inspired us. I have no doubt that the Kundiman retreat has emerged as the premier site in the nation for the creative and intellectual capital for Asian American writers.

—Chi Lam