Academics work is not lost in translation

A landmark publishing project which is translating the 20 most culturally important works of writing in Romania into English has been recognised by a prestigious international literary festival.

This venture between the University of Plymouth Press and the Romanian Cultural Institute, has resulted in one key text being shortlisted for the Corneiliu M Popescue Prize - which recognised poetry translated from a European language into English.

The book, Lines Poems Poetry, by Mircea Ivanescu, was released in 2009 as one of the first four texts to be published in an arrangement which includes novels, essays and works of philosophy.
In 2010 a further four were released, and 12 more are scheduled over the course of the next three years.

Describing Lines Poems, the judges said the series of poetic short stories is an ‘engaging book’ and a wonderful addition to the Romanian poetry already in translation.

Associate Dean of Teaching and Learning Colin Searls said: “The overall collection showcases the very best Romanian writing from across the past 100 years, and the Faculty of Arts is delighted to be associated with this important cultural bridgehead.”

The winning title will be celebrated at a close reading event at the Aldeburgh Poetry Festival in Suffolk in November.

Paul Honeywill, MA Publishing programme manager, added: “This is great recognition for the University, and offers great experiential learning opportunities for our MA publishing students who have the chance to work on this series, and join with the Romanian National Book Centre at events such as the London Book Fair.”

ENDS