Description

Book Synopsis

An energizing real-time journey through the translation of Never Did the Fire and the process of literary translation.

In Catching Fire , the translation of Diamela Eltit's Never Did the Fire unfolds in real time as a conversation between works of art, illuminating both in the process. The problems and pleasures of conveying literature into another language—what happens when you meet a pun? a double entendre?—are met by translator Daniel Hahn's humor, deftness, and deep appreciation for what sets Eltit's work apart, and his evolving understanding of what this particular novel is trying to do.



Trade Review

"A frank, forensic diary that describes what happens when we set aside metaphors and begin the Sisyphean task of translation." —The Spectator

"Hahn is so smart and neurotic and funny." —New York Times

"Warm, witty, intellectual yet down to earth, Hahn has written a unique book." —The Monthly Booking

"A book full of insights into what goes on behind the translation scenes." —Tony's Reading List

Catching Fire: A Translation Diary

    Product form

    A Paperback / softback by Daniel Hahn

    £9.99

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    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Sat 12 Sep 2026.

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      Book details

      Publisher Charco Press
      Published 5 April 2022
      ISBN-13 9781913867256
      978-1913867256
      ISBN-10 1913867250
      Also in:
      Dictionaries, Reference & Language Translation and language interpretation ELT & Literary Studies Literary studies: fiction

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      An energizing real-time journey through the translation of Never Did the Fire and the process of literary translation.

      In Catching Fire , the translation of Diamela Eltit's Never Did the Fire unfolds in real time as a conversation between works of art, illuminating both in the process. The problems and pleasures of conveying literature into another language—what happens when you meet a pun? a double entendre?—are met by translator Daniel Hahn's humor, deftness, and deep appreciation for what sets Eltit's work apart, and his evolving understanding of what this particular novel is trying to do.



      Trade Review

      "A frank, forensic diary that describes what happens when we set aside metaphors and begin the Sisyphean task of translation." —The Spectator

      "Hahn is so smart and neurotic and funny." —New York Times

      "Warm, witty, intellectual yet down to earth, Hahn has written a unique book." —The Monthly Booking

      "A book full of insights into what goes on behind the translation scenes." —Tony's Reading List

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