Opening doors with literary translation

As a translation agency specialised in editorial works, we know a thing or two about the power of literary translation. Time and again, we see the positive effects that it has at both a reputational and financial level. In this article, we outline how translation can open up fresh opportunities, reinforce cultural exchange and promote understanding across borders.

This boils down to the fact that translation allows readers to experience stories far beyond their linguistic borders. Although there are thousands of languages in existence, most people read primarily in one – their mother tongue. In fact, there are over 7,000 languages officially recorded, with 23 languages spoken by more than half of the population. The ‘main’ languages are English, Mandarin, Hindi, Spanish, French and Arabic.

Readers who speak less globally dominant languages can learn about different histories, traditions and perspectives. Their horizons, empathy and imagination broaden as a result. They gain an insight into the world views rather than those limited to their own language community. The same naturally applies to speakers of ‘mainstream’ languages too – new ways of looking at the world are opened up through the act of translation. Without this, literary exchange would be limited to a fraction of humanity, literature would remain local. Let’s not forget that this also greatly benefits authors, who can tap into far greater readerships thanks to translation.

By gaining access to stories from within a particular culture, readers can move beyond superficial assumptions and learn to appreciate different perspectives. This deeper knowledge encourages tolerance, because stories from within cultures are more powerful and convincing than the preconceived ideas. Translation helps stories of migration, conflict, war, gender, discrimination, class or identity gain international resonance. It helps abolish stereotypes and oversimplifications. Reading foreign stories teaches us empathy. It helps us understand that despite distance, political, cultural, economic or religious differences, people everywhere have the same human needs, share the same emotional core and have similar curiosity and aspirations.

Exposure to foreign literature helps readers realise that beneath the surface people around the world are far more similar than they might think. Through stories written in different languages and shaped by different traditions, readers discover that many cultures share the same core values: kindness, fairness, respect and a desire to live in peace. Even when characters come from unfamiliar places, speak unfamiliar languages or follow different religions, their emotions feel recognisable. They love their families, worry about the future, fear loss and hope for happiness.

Foreign literature shows how universal human experiences are, even when day-to-day life looks different. Readers learn what people dream about: education, freedom, safety, adventure and how they strive to reach those dreams. They see how characters face challenges – poverty, discrimination, conflict or personal doubt – and how they respond with courage, humour or determination. These struggles mirror the challenges that readers encounter in their own lives.

Foreign literature shows how different communities celebrate: community or country-specific festivals, family gatherings and local traditions. These traditions highlight cultural diversity whilst reminding us that celebration of milestones is a universal part of human life.

Editorial translation is a skill all on its own. Working with the right partner plays a pivotal role in whether your publication strikes the right note on your target markets. First Edition Translations is a certified translation agency based in Cambridge, UK. Boasting decades of expertise in the cultural and creative industries, we are a founding member of the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) and part of the Association for Cultural Enterprises (ACE) – a reflection of our dedication to both our own craft and that of our clients. We specialise in translation, editing, proofreading and typesetting for books of all kinds, covering everything from children’s tales to cookbooks.

We offer a wide range of services for the translation, editing, proofreading and typesetting of publications. Fiction, non-fiction, audiobooks or eBooks – we’ve done it all and in a variety of world languages. We’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many a publisher – including Arcturus Publishing, Bolinda, Cambridge University Press, DK, Octopus and the Orion Publishing Group. If you’d like to explore how we can help elevate your standing on the international literary stage, our project managers are always happy to advise at enquiries@firstedit.co.uk.