One key challenge of literary translations is the need to balance linguistics issues while reproducing accurately and beautifully, without languor. This is a regenerative discussion about challenges in crossing language, transnational writing, and cultural diversity in literature.
Panelist Nazry Bahrawi specializes in the comparative study of texts, theories and traditions of Indian Ocean cultures between the Malay Archipelago and the Middle East. His research is informed by discourses in world literature, decolonial theory, translation studies and ethnic studies. He published in these areas in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes. He translated two literary works from Bahasa to English by Singapore’s Cultural Medallion winners: namely, Mohamed Latiff Mohamed’s collection of short stories, Lost Nostalgia (Ethos: 2017) and Nadiputra’s play, Lorong Buang Kok: The Musical (Cokelat: 2012). His latest book Singa-Pura-Pura launched in Sep 2021, translated Malay Speculative Fiction from Singapore. More info here.
Panelist Shelly Bryant divides her year between Shanghai and Singapore. She is the author of twelve volumes of poetry, a pair of travel guides for the cities of Suzhou and Shanghai, a book on classical Chinese gardens, and a short story collection. Shelly translated numerous works from Chinese to English. Her translation of Sheng Keyi’s Northern Girls was long listed for the Man Asian Literary Prize in 2012, and her translation of You Jin's In Time, Out of Place was shortlisted for the Singapore Literature Prize in 2016. Her company, Tender Leaves Translation, was shortlisted for The Literary Translation Initiative Award by the London Book Fair in 2021. More info here.
Moderator Akshita Nanda is the author of two novels: Beauty Queens of Bishan (Penguin Random House SEA) and Nimita's Place (Epigram Books) which co-won the 2020 Singapore Literature Prize for English Fiction. Nimita's Place was also adapted for the stage and shortlisted for the 2019 Singapore Book Awards.
VENUE: Zoom (online)
LINK: To be provided to registrants
EVENT WEBSITE: Eventbrite (for registration)
DATE AND TIME
17 Aug 2022, 7pm-8pm