Samuel Beckett and Translation

Samuel Beckett and Translation explores the idea that at the core of Beckett's work there is no fixed center but a constant movement between variants of French and English. This collection of newly commissioned edited essays opens up original lines of enquiry into this restless impulse and how it finds a resonance in Beckett's writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 16 August 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Samuel Beckett and Translation is a groundbreaking collection of essays that delves into the fascinating realm of Samuel Beckett's bilingualism and its profound impact on his literary production. This book, which includes especially commissioned contributions by three translators who worked closely with Beckett, offers a fresh and innovative perspective on traditional analyses of Beckett's work, which often overlooked the significance of his bilingualism.

By revisiting these traditional analyses, the book seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of Beckett's oeuvre, taking into account the unique dynamic of his bilingualism. Each contribution in the book considers both versions of a Beckett text as originals, each with its own distinct dynamic impulse. This approach recognizes the importance of bilingualism in shaping Beckett's artistic vision and allows for a deeper exploration of his literary works.

One of the key insights offered by Samuel Beckett and Translation is that at the core of Beckett's work lies a constant movement between variants of French and English. This exploration of linguistic diversity opens up new lines of enquiry into Beckett's restless impulse and how it finds resonance in his writing. The book discusses various topics related to Beckett's bilingualism, including his self-translations, translations of other authors, and the poetics of translation.

Through these discussions, the book sheds light on the complex interplay between language, translation, and artistic expression. It demonstrates how Beckett's bilingualism influenced his choice of words, syntax, and structure, creating a unique literary language that is both accessible and enigmatic. The book also includes ample knowledge of previous scholarship in the field, building upon the path initiated by the groundbreaking monograph A Tongue Not Mine (2011), by Sinéad Mooney.

In addition to its academic value, Samuel Beckett and Translation is a valuable resource for translators and scholars of Beckett's work. The book provides insights into the challenges and complexities of translating Beckett's texts, as well as the strategies employed by the translators to convey his unique voice and vision in different languages. The section of commentary from seasoned translators who have worked on Beckett's texts adds further depth and richness to the collection, offering valuable perspectives and insights into the translation process.

Overall, Samuel Beckett and Translation is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to Beckett Studies. It offers valuable insights into one of the most exciting developments in the field in recent years and provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding Beckett's literary production. By exploring the interplay between language, translation, and artistic expression, this book sheds light on the enduring legacy of Samuel Beckett and his profound impact on contemporary literature.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474483834