Taghrid BouMerhi
You have authored 23 books and translated 33 to date. How has your experience as both a writer and translator influenced your approach to literature?
First, I thank you, dear Ana, for hosting me and conducting this interview with me.
My experience as both a writer and a translator has significantly influenced my approach to literature in several ways. As a writer, my creative process is influenced by the precision and cultural depth that I have encountered through translation. Translating diverse works gives me the opportunity to see the world through various linguistic and cultural lenses, which enriches the themes and styles in my original writing. Additionally, translation requires a deep understanding of nuances, which contributes to my ability to express profound emotions and ideas with accuracy. This dual role has instilled in me a unique sensitivity to language, allowing me to create literary works that resonate with and have cross-cultural impact.
Your work has been translated into 47 languages. You also gave a significant contribution to translating works of authors across the globe. Tell us more about your latest books “Birds of Paradise for the Children of Gaza” and “Stations of Memory”? Present it to our readers.
Translation is a bridge that connects cultures, allowing literature and ideas to transcend linguistic boundaries. It plays a crucial role in spreading cultural values, fostering understanding, and creating dialogue between different societies. Through translation, the richness of one culture becomes accessible to another, promoting diversity and unity. It is an essential tool for preserving and sharing the world’s literary heritage. Translators act as cultural ambassadors, ensuring that stories, philosophies, and histories are shared globally.
One of the works that I compiled, prepared, and translated is the book “Birds of Paradise,” dedicated to the children of Gaza and their suffering due to the war.
The book consists of three parts. The first part contains 77 poems, most of them in English (some in Italian and Spanish). I translated these poems into Arabic, and the first part of the book has been published electronically on the Agharid Network and the Prodigy Magazine website. It will be released in print in November in Egypt by Diwan Al Arab Publishing and Distribution House.
The book was introduced by Greek poet Eva Petropoulou Lianou, and I wrote a preface along with a dedication which stated:
To all those who contributed to this book, which carries within it the voices of the children and their struggles in Gaza, I dedicate these words as an expression of appreciation and acknowledgment of the efforts made in conveying their stories, pain and dreams to a new world of understanding and solidarity. Thank you for what your hands have written, expressing the importance of humanity and compassion towards oppressed and persecuted peoples who endure all forms of suffering and torment.
The cover was designed by the Lebanese artist and writer Mona Dougan Jamaleddine, who resides in France. The interior design was done by Salvador Cap Bic from the USA and Charles Lipanda Mahigwe from Africa.
This book is considered a tribute to the children of Gaza, who, despite challenges and injustice, continue to fight for their dignity and basic rights. The pages of this book are filled with the poignant voices of those who have been deprived of their innocence and safety, forced to face the brutality of war and deprivation. The collected poems bear witness to their daily reality, struggles, suffering, and shattered hopes, with the poet becoming a witness and a voice of the harsh truth, providing a genuine and moving reflection on the experiences lived by the children of Gaza.
The second book I recently translated is “Stations of Memory.” This book was initiated by the poet Nasser Ramadan Abdel Hamid from Egypt and is divided into two parts. The second part includes a collection of stories in foreign languages (33 stories), which I translated into Arabic.
The book was published on 3/10/2024 in Egypt by Scribe Publishing and Distribution House. It is 400 pages long, and in addition to the translation, I wrote the introduction, in which I stated:
The short story is one of the most impactful and engaging literary forms. With just a few words, a writer can take us on a profound journey into different worlds, painting vivid pictures and revealing various emotions and experiences. This type of literature can serve as a mirror to society or a pulse of the individual, reflecting everything within us or around us. When the stories are told in different languages, the experience becomes even richer and more inspiring.
This book, “Stations of Memory,” contains 33 very short stories written in different languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Italian, reflecting the cultural and literary diversity expressed by each author of these stories. The diversity of languages in this anthology is not merely an artistic choice but a bridge that connects diverse cultures and builds bridges of understanding and respect between people. Literature, at its core, is a means of communication between humans, and this collection of stories is a living example of literary interaction between different cultures.
This book is not just a collection of short stories but a space that opens doors to a multiplicity of voices and ideas. Each story is a small world, and each language represents a different culture and life experience. Through this anthology, we discover that literature knows no boundaries and that we can learn much through reading in other languages and cultures.
You’re deeply involved in multiple literary platforms, serving as an editor and advisor. What role do you believe these platforms play in shaping global literary discourse?
Literary platforms play a crucial role in shaping global literary discourse by providing a space for diverse voices to be heard, regardless of geographical or linguistic barriers. They facilitate the exchange of ideas, cultures, and perspectives, fostering a greater understanding between different societies. By promoting translations, these platforms enable the cross-pollination of literature, enriching both the writers' and readers' experiences. They also act as a bridge for marginalized or lesser-known authors to gain international recognition, thus democratizing access to literature. Furthermore, literary platforms offer opportunities for collaboration, debate, and innovation, helping to shape new literary trends and expand the boundaries of traditional literary genres. They serve as a dynamic hub for connecting readers and writers across the globe, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and interconnected global literary community.
You’ve received numerous international awards for your creative and journalistic excellence. Which of these recognitions do you feel had the most impact on your career, and why?
Literary awards hold great importance and have a significant impact on the professional life of a writer or poet. They enhance the writer's status and recognition in the literary field, giving them greater credibility and acknowledgment of their efforts and creativity. Awards contribute to expanding the reader base and generating interest in the writer's works, opening new horizons for publishing and promoting their works. Additionally, awards can provide opportunities to connect with publishing houses and global literary networks, which helps in enhancing the international reach of literary works. Awards also give writers confidence and continuity, encouraging them to innovate and develop in their literary endeavors.
Honestly, all the awards I have received hold their own importance and impact. Each award or recognition has its special charm at the moment of receiving it. However, I can say that winning the first prize in the Chang Nian Cup competition had a significant, beautiful, and honorable impact. It led to my introduction in many magazines, platforms, and even on Chinese television, which marked a launch into another world and other cultures.
There is also the Nizar Sartawi Award for Translation and the Naji Naaman Literary Award, among others, all of which I am proud of.
As a multilingual poet and writer, how do you think language shapes your poetry and its translation?
As a multilingual poet and writer, language profoundly shapes my poetry and its translation. Each language carries unique rhythms, idioms, and cultural nuances, influencing how emotions and ideas are expressed. Writing in different languages allows me to explore diverse themes and styles, enriching my creative palette. The subtleties of each language offer various ways to convey meaning, adding depth to my work.
When translating poetry, I strive to preserve not just the literal meaning but also the emotional resonance and musicality of the original text. This process requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as the cultures they represent. The interplay between languages can create new interpretations and insights, expanding the poem's reach and impact. Ultimately, language acts as both a canvas and a bridge, connecting readers across cultures and inviting them to experience the shared human experience through my words.
You are an ambassador for and peace in London. How do you see the connection between creativity and global peace efforts?
Creativity and global peace efforts are deeply interconnected, as artistic expression often transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, fostering understanding and empathy. Creative works - whether through literature, art, or music - can communicate complex emotions and experiences, allowing individuals to connect on a human level. This shared understanding is essential for promoting dialogue and reconciliation in conflict situations.
Moreover, creative initiatives can serve as powerful tools for social change, raising awareness about pressing global issues and inspiring action. By engaging communities in creative projects, we can cultivate a sense of belonging and shared purpose, essential for building peaceful societies. Additionally, creativity can provide an outlet for expressing dissent and addressing injustices, paving the way for healing and transformation.
In my role as an ambassador for peace, I believe that harnessing the power of creativity can contribute to conflict resolution and global harmony, creating spaces where diverse voices are heard and valued, ultimately nurturing a more compassionate and peaceful world.
What advice would you give to emerging writers and translators in the Arab world and internationally?
To emerging writers and translators in the Arab world and internationally, I would offer the following advice:
Embrace Your Voice and let it shine through in your writing.
Read widely both in your native language and in others. Reading extensively can inspire you and expose you to different narrative techniques and linguistic nuances.
For translators, mastering multiple languages is crucial. Continually work on improving your language skills to enhance your translation accuracy and creativity.
Don’t hesitate to share your work with others and seek constructive feedback. Engaging with peers can provide valuable insights and help you grow as a writer or translator.
Build connections within literary communities, both locally and internationally which can open up new opportunities.
Be persistent and keep honing your craft, as success often comes to those who don’t give up.
Use your platform to address cultural, social, and political issues relevant to your community. Your work can contribute to inspire change.
Experiment and Innovate: Innovation in writing and translation can lead to fresh and impactful works.
Stay Informed with literary trends, movements, and technological advancements in publishing and translation.
Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and the value of your work. Trust that your contributions to literature and translation matter and can make a difference in the world.
Interview by: Dr. Ana Stjelja
Photos: Taghrid BouMerhi FB
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