Literature knows no frontiers, and should remain a common currency between nations in spite of political or international upheavals.
The PEN Charter
International Translation Day, the largest coming-together for the UK translation community, is back.
Translation and translators play a pivotal role in moving words and ideas across linguistic and national borders; in fostering internationalism; and in giving readers access to outstanding literature not originally published in the English language. In a political moment where borders are being reinforced and freedoms challenged, it is telling that the publication and readership of literature in translation is increasing.
Following the success of 2018’s format, ITD 2019’s evening programme explores ‘Translating Today’ – what it means to be a translator working in this moment, and what it means to attempt to translate it. Throughout, it will ask the question: What does our political moment mean for translation? ITD will start with daytime Translation Clinics, where translators can come with specific challenges (small or large) to discuss with experienced practitioners. The evening programme will start with a panel discussion, ‘Translating Today’, exploring practical and theoretical questions around contemporary translation, with a focus on the politics of translation. This will be followed by ‘Pitching Today’, in which three translators will pitch ideas pre-selected by publishers and editors. Finally, the evening will close with a translation party, where translators can network and meet with colleagues and editors.
TICKETS
- £5 early-bird tickets will be available to English PEN members from 12 noon, 1 July 2019. Subject to availability. Sold out.
- Ten bursary tickets will be available to self-identifying low-income attendees, issued on a first-come-first-serve basis, from 12 noon, 1 July 2019. Application for bursary tickets are still available. Please email [email protected] with the subject heading ‘ITD bursary ticket’, registering your interest and listing your contact details.
- £15 general release tickets will be available from 12 noon, 15 July 2019. Sold out.
CLINICS
The call for Translation Clinic participants will open at 12 noon, 1 August 2019. Spaces will be allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis. Please note: you must have an ITD ticket to apply to participate.
Find out more about ITD’s Translation Clinics.
PITCHING
The call for submissions to Pitching Today will open at 12 noon, 1 August 2019, and close 12 noon, 31 August 2019. Please note: you must have an ITD ticket to participate.
Find out more about Pitching Today.
ACCESSIBILITY
There is step-free access to all areas of Free Word and a number of other facilities available to make the venue accessible. All panel events will be BSL interpreted.
International Translation Day 2019 is supported by the Booker Prize Foundation and ALCS.