Speaking in Tongues

J. M. Coetzee, Mariana Dimopulos

Speaking in Tongues
Format
Hardback
Publisher
WW Norton & Co
Country
United States
Published
6 May 2025
Pages
144
ISBN
9781324096450

Speaking in Tongues

J. M. Coetzee, Mariana Dimopulos

Language, historically speaking, has always been slippery. Two dictionaries provide two different maps of the universe: which one is true, or are both false? Speaking in Tongues-taking the form of a dialogue between Nobel-Laureate novelist J. M. Coetzee and eminent translator Mariana Dimopulos-explores questions that have constantly plagued writers and translators, now more than ever. Among them:

How can a translator liberate meanings imprisoned in the language of a text? Why is the masculine form dominant in gendered languages while the feminine is treated as a deviation? How should we counter the spread of monolingualism? Should a translator censor racist or misogynistic language? Does mathematics tell the truth about everything?

In the tradition of Walter Benjamin's seminal essay "The Task of the Translator," Speaking in Tongues emerges as an engaging and accessible work of philosophy, shining a light on some of the most important linguistic and philological issues of our time.

Order online and we’ll ship when available (6 May 2025)

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.