I remember reading the manuscript of my novel when it was just translated into English. At moments I had the sensation that I was reading someone else’s book. But it was so refreshing and I fell in love again with the story I wrote almost a decade ago, and that I had been reading over and over in the language that it was written: Spanish.
Tanya, the translator did a fantastic job. I feel that the essence and the tone of the novel remained intact. However I have to confess, now that is out I am terrified of facing the English speaking audience. I have written in English before, being published in First Coast Magazine and featured at Scary Mommy for example, but those were short texts. And even when I new that the texts were revised by editors and the language was clear, I always had the feeling that maybe there were many mistakes that I could not see and others would. But I believe, if you are a Latinx writer living in the United States, or even if you are not, if you are an artist in any part of the world, embracing multiculturalism and multilingualism is a MUST.
We need to take advantage of the tools that technology is allowing us artists to use in order to showcase our work. More if you are an independent artist who is not backed up by any big corporation. With globalization and connectivity the world is yours if you want to. And you need to try, don’t be afraid of new territories. For independent writers it’s a dream to release the books in different languages. But let’s face it, the costs of translation is high. So, you need to wait for the right time and the right moment. Let me tell you, you wont regret it. It’s worth every penny.
I cannot explain with words the sensation to be able to release this story with much more people. Even with my husband who is originally Ukrainian and had never been able to read my novel because of the language. I had to start somewhere. The Lake of Miracles is a very special book for me, it has been “my first” of many things.
I know you will have doubts, and you probably will think that it’s not necessary. But getting your book translated, or any art or story you want to showcase, not only will broad your audience but also, it will give you a new sense of accomplishment. Not to mention it will give you an edge. A few words of advice: take your time finding the translator you feel comfortable with. See the money you spend on the translation as an investment. If you do it yourself, find someone else that can take a deep look.
Have you done it? How was your crossover experience? Please share your story with me.
