Translator Beware: On the Myth of the Finicky English Reader
The article discusses the concept of the 'Mythical English Reader,' a hypothetical figure that influences literary translation and publishing decisions. The author reflects on how this reader, often characterized as a white male, shapes perceptions of what is considered acceptable or appealing in literature. The piece critiques the narrow standards imposed by this figure, highlighting the need for broader representation in literary works.
- ▪The 'Mythical English Reader' is often invoked by editors and academics to influence translation and publishing decisions.
- ▪This reader is typically portrayed as a white male who prefers works by other white men and is resistant to diverse voices.
- ▪The author argues that the standards set by this reader are limiting and do not reflect the actual diversity of the reading public.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
When I started my career as a professional literary translator, I began coming up against a mysterious “English reader” whom academics and editors kept referring to when they looked over my work, leaving comments like, “the English reader will find this line awkward” or “I understand, but we need to make things more accessible to the English reader” and so on.Article continues after advertisement This was very puzzling; I am an English reader, I’ve been reading English the whole of my reading life. I have a master’s degree in Victorian poetry from a prestigious university and worked professionally for years in literary translation, which means, frankly, I tend to be more normative in my English usage, if anything. Look at this paragraph, for example; I sound practically archaic.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Literary Hub.
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