Happy International Translation Day!

International Translation Day is celebrated annually on September 30th, coinciding with the feast of St. Jerome, who translated the Bible into Latin in the 4th century. His work, known as the Vulgate, established him as the patron saint of translators. The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized this day in 2017 through a resolution that highlights the importance of professional translation in fostering global dialogue, cooperation, and peace. The resolution emphasizes that translation is both a trade and an art, playing a key role in upholding the principles of the UN Charter. The date was selected to honor St. Jerome’s historical contributions to translation and his enduring legacy in the field.

The United Nations resolution of 2017 underscores that translation serves as a bridge between nations, facilitating understanding and cooperation. It contributes to development, strengthens peace, and promotes security by enabling cross-cultural communication. Translation is not limited to technical or legal documents but extends to literature, making foreign books accessible to new audiences. The resolution recognizes that translation is essential for preserving cultural diversity and ensuring that ideas can circulate globally without linguistic barriers. This role is particularly significant in an interconnected world where collaboration across languages is increasingly vital.

St. Jerome, who lived from approximately 347 to 420 CE, is best known for translating the Bible from Greek and Hebrew into Latin, a version called the Vulgate. His work became the standard biblical text for centuries and solidified his reputation as the patron saint of translators. Some scholars humorously describe him as the patron saint of 'irascible, morbidly sensitive old curmudgeons,' reflecting his well-documented strong personality and rigorous standards. His feast day, September 30th, was chosen as International Translation Day to honor his contributions and inspire modern translators.

The article highlights the creative and intellectual challenges of literary translation through essays by experts in the field. Anton Hur discusses the myth of the 'finicky English reader' and the future of translation, while Idra Novey explores the relationship between writing and translating. Damion Searls emphasizes the importance of close reading in translation, and Kristen Renee Miller argues that every writer should learn translation skills. Chloe Garcia Roberts shares reasons for optimism in the field, and Moeen Farrokhi describes the unique challenges of translating David Foster Wallace’s Infinite Jest into Farsi. These perspectives illustrate the depth and complexity of literary translation as both an art and a craft.

Translating literary works presents unique difficulties, as seen in Michael R. Katz’s discussion of translating Fyodor Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov into English. Katz highlights the challenges of preserving the original text’s tone, style, and cultural nuances while making it accessible to English-speaking readers. Elena Marcu describes the emotional and technical challenges of translating James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room into Romanian, emphasizing the importance of capturing the author’s voice and intent. These examples demonstrate that translation is not merely about substituting words but about recreating the essence of the original work in a new language.

Lawrence Venuti discusses the shifting role of translators, who are increasingly recognized as intellectuals and cultural mediators rather than just invisible conduits of meaning. Emily Wilson and Leanne Ogasawara engage in a conversation about the complexities of translation, including the challenges of translating 'complicated men' and the importance of celebrating strangeness in literature. These discussions reflect a growing appreciation for translators as active participants in shaping how texts are understood and received across cultures. The field is evolving to acknowledge the translator’s creative and interpretive contributions.

Lizzie Buehler shares how translating Korean literature improved her skills as a fiction writer, demonstrating that translation can enhance one’s own writing abilities. Sasha Senderovich and Harriet Murav explore the ethical and practical challenges of translating Holocaust literature in times of ongoing genocide, highlighting the responsibility translators bear in preserving historical memory. These examples show that translation is not only a literary endeavor but also a tool for personal growth, cultural exchange, and ethical reflection.

The article provides several curated reading lists for those interested in exploring translated literature. It includes The 10 Best Translated Novels of the Decade, a list of 17 great books in translation from university presses, and a reading list of collaborative translated literature. Additionally, it offers a list of six novels that blend folktales and horror, as well as ten titles in translation that celebrate Ukraine. These recommendations cater to diverse interests, from contemporary fiction to genre-specific works, encouraging readers to explore global literature.