Abstract

In this book, both beginning and experienced translators will find pragmatic techniques for dealing with problems of literary translation, whatever the original language. Certain challenges and certain themes recur in translation, whatever the language pair. This guide proposes to help the translator navigate through them. Written in a witty and easy to read style, the book’s hands-on approach will make it accessible to translators of any background. A significant portion of this Practical Guide is devoted to the question of how to go about finding an outlet for one’s translations.

It is an eminently practical (and accessible) guide to literary translation, and one which I am sure will prove invaluable to translators just starting out.

Mr Landers, a prize winning translator of many books, confidently answers questions instinctive to translators in a personal and friendly tone that puts the reader at ease. This book serves as an excellent guideline for successful maneuvering while quenching my passion for literary translation.

What I find most valuable in this book is Landers’ insight and knowledge gained from his years of experience as a prolific literary translator.

No book exists that takes such a practical and comprehensive approach to the myriad issues faced by translators of literature, and in sharing his wisdom in such an accessible way, with Literary Translation: A Practical Guide, Cliff Landers has, in his own charming, humble way, made an enormous contribution to our craft.

This book is a jewel, displaying in its facets: artistry, hard-headedness, patience, common-sense, courage and charm... His guide should have a long and useful life.

Landers’ witty and accessible style makes the book a pleasure to read, and the humor that he injects into the discussion will coax occasional laughter from even the most serious readers.

Here is a guide that defies its generic limitations thanks to the flair and panache of its author.

Written in an engaging, witty and accessible style, this practical guide provides a concise overview of techniques and tools for translating literary works for publication.... Best read from cover to cover, this book will interest professionals but will prove especially useful and instructive for beginning and prospective translators.