Literature in translation with Lauren Elkin

Have we got over a cultural reluctance to read literature in translation?

Alice and Charlotte have both been reading Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico, and it’s got us thinking about the unique experience of reading literature from another culture. In today’s episode, we speak to the novelist and translator Lauren Elkin about what it’s like to render a book in a different language, the scourge of bad translations, and whether translators are finally beginning to get more respect and recognition.

We also discuss the huge impact of Fitzcarraldo’s publishing on contemporary literature, the importance of good design in publishing, hip literary parties, and why some books become widely read in some languages but never find their audience in others.

Do you read literature in translation? What’s your favourite book from another culture?

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