Interview of the month – Soti Triantafyllou

Tell us a little bit about yourself. When did you realise you wanted to become a writer and how did you start working as a literary translator?

I wanted to be a writer from a very young age, but I didn’t know how. I started studying various subjects, and I am still studying today. What’s more, I didn’t want to create a negative image by publishing books that I would later be ashamed of. I don’t like the idea of a writer’s first immature work. As for translation, I have been multilingual since I was very young. Translation was an apprenticeship in writing for me. However, I don’t particularly enjoy it as a process.

Do you think that your experience –and talent- contribute in your literary translations? Do you agree with the view that literary translators must be writers themselves, even if only a little bit?

Although I have translated literature on many occasions, I always prefer essays, especially when I can learn something by reading them. Indeed, a good translator must be somewhat talented in writing. However, this is rare…Even most writers lack talent in writing.

You have mentioned that you are an avid fan of music, and especially rock ‘n’ roll. It has been said that translation can be seen as the cover version of a track. Do you agree with that view? 

It’s an interesting view. However, many translators that happen to be writers as well often overdo it: translating too freely is a sign of narcissism, if not of an inferiority complex towards the author whose book you’re translating. We often find covers of songs disappointing, because in reality, we long for the original version.

What is your opinion about the future of literary translation in Greece?

I think that things are getting better. During periods of mass book production, like  the ‘70s, poor translations were the rule. There is also a financial issue: translators are not paid well, which often results in translations of low quality. Of course, their lack of professionalism is not justified nor does it mean they’re not responsible for the quality of their translation. 

Among the books you have translated, which one has stayed with you the most and why? 

None of them. I’ve translated books that have bored me to death, and others that I actually enjoyed translating. Translation, as opposed to writing, can sometimes become a chore.

Interview translated by Yourtranslator.gr