Jenny Erpenbeck reflected on her collaboration with translator Michael Hofmann in bringing her book, Kairos, to English readers. She expressed gratitude for having such an experienced translator during their first project together, highlighting the positive aspects of their work.
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Erpenbeck shared her reading habits, noting that she enjoys reading for pleasure in the mornings, during meals, and while traveling. She also listens to audiobooks while driving and makes time to read at night. Currently, she is reading Landscapes by Christine Lai, a writer she recently met during a festival, admiring her unique approach to themes of violence, loss, and memory.
Discussing her childhood, Erpenbeck recalled her eagerness to read independently after listening to stories from her parents. She recalled being immersed in literature, particularly Grimm’s Fairy Tales, which influenced her understanding of both magic and harsh realities.
When asked to recommend a German book to English readers, she chose Marlen Haushofers The Wall, describing it as an impactful exploration of incomprehensible destruction and the concept of evil in the world.
Erpenbeck expressed her admiration for Egyptian author Naguib Mahfouz, who was shortlisted for the International Booker Prize in 2005. Her mother translated much of Mahfouz’s work into German, making his Cairo a familiar part of her upbringing. She was particularly moved by Mahfouz’s reflections on life and death, especially following his Nobel Prize win in 1988.
On the role of translated fiction, Erpenbeck emphasized its importance in creating a more inclusive literary landscape. She noted that while English-speaking readers have access to numerous significant authors, many other cultures have essential stories to share. She highlighted the richness of diverse narratives and the universality of human experiences that can be discovered through reading.