#1book140: A Conversation with Philip Gabriel
As we wrap up our conversations about Haruki Murakami's Kafka on the Shore for #1book140, translator Philip Gabriel answers questions to help us figure out some of Murakami's most confusing puzzles
@Curlykale Never heard any mention that it is. I think I did a search for it when I was translating it. #1b140_q- @Chris_D_Smith Definitely Hoshino. I like his attitude, and transformation from rough truck driver to (somewhat) enlightened person.
- @ryokamiya #1b140_q A big challenge. If possible I try to find existing good translations, so as not to reinvent the wheel.
@PhilipGabriel1 Is referring to self in 3rd person more common in Japanese than in English? Seems it would get old in any language. #1b140_q- @TheAtlanticENT #1b140_q I think it might be. I associate it w/young girls in Japan. You'll notice I threw it in the trans from time to time
- @TheAtlanticENT #1b140_q I had trouble with Kafka, too. He's 15 but at times seems way older. Otherwordly describes some of characters .
- @jesperjacobsen #1b140_q I'd have to say Kafka 'cause I spent so much time on it, and M (Murakami) and I spent a lot of time back and forth.
- @PhilipGabriel1 Oh, neat--you were in touch w Murakami in the process. What's he like to work with? #1b140_q
- @TheAtlanticENT 1b140_q He's a translator himself and very understanding. Sent me a long list of suggestions, obv. read the trans carefully
- @TheCinemaGirl #1b140_q Typical, I think. He knows how to tell a story and doesn't get too sidetracked. Tries to keep prose approachable.
@PhilipGabriel1 That approachable style made it easy to follow Murakami on all the flights of fancy. Just seemed perfectly natural. #1b140_Q- @TheCinemaGirl #1b140_q Telling odd, otherwordly tales in an every day voice--that's definitely one of M's strengths. Y fall into his world
- @dean_carson #1b140_q It's long, but compelling. The this-world/other world theme is a major part of the story.What's it like on other side?
