Trinity Journal of Literary Translation Releases New Issue Focused on 'Rebellion'

On Thursday, October 1, at 6:30 p.m., Trinity students gathered in the Hist Conversation Room to celebrate the launch of volume fifteen of the Trinity Journal of Literary Translation (JoLT), a non-profit literary publication established in 2013. The theme of this latest issue is “Rebellion,” reflecting a range of interpretations through translated poetry and prose by authors such as Baudelaire and Machado.

Editor-in-Chief Jules Nati introduced the issue and invited contributors to present their work. Tyna Szwiec, a postgraduate student from Poland, read her English translation of Julian Tuwim’s poem “Do prostego człowieka” (“To the Simple Man”), which critiques propaganda and expresses anti-war sentiments. Szwiec recited the poem first in English, followed by its original Polish form, offering listeners rich linguistic insights. Cyril Huziev then shared his translation of Zinaida Hippius’s “Zametki o chelovechestve” (“Notes on Humanity”), which delves into the political and social upheavals of 20th-century Russia.

Jes Paluchowska, Deputy Editor of JoLT and a Polish native, read from their translation of the 1939 poem “Runą” by Zbigniew Turek, using the pseudonym Adam Śreżoga. Paluchowska explained that while a vertical reading praises Stalin and the Soviet regime, a horizontal approach reveals a pro-Polish subtext. Each translated piece appears alongside its original text, allowing readers to engage fully with the works.

The issue includes representations from over eight languages, including Irish, Kazakh, and Czech. Many translators provided additional context for their works, drawing upon their cultural backgrounds to enhance the audience's appreciation.

Published biannually, JoLT also showcases student artwork that complements each issue's theme. Fourteen translations out of approximately thirty submissions were selected by a twelve-member editorial team. Nati emphasized the intimate nature of translation, noting that a translator’s voice and emotions can be reflected in their choices of words.

JoLT is currently accepting submissions for its next issue, which will explore the theme of “Mysticism.” Submissions are due by Sunday, October 25, and can be sent to [email protected]. Visual art related to the mysticism theme is also welcome. The latest issue is available for virtual reading on JoLT’s website.