'Odyssey' translator Emily Wilson is translating the epic again
Los Angeles Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Emily Wilson, known for her acclaimed 2017 English translation of Homer’s "The Odyssey," is working on a complete retranslation of the ancient Greek epic, aiming to allow more flexibility in style compared to her previous strict poetic meter.
- Wilson's 2017 translation, the first major English version by a woman, gained renewed popularity after Christopher Nolan referenced it in his film adaptation, leading to a significant spike in sales on platforms like Audible.
- Her new translation will feature longer lines, repeated phrases, and expanded endnotes, reflecting a style similar to her 2023 translation of "The Iliad," and offering readers deeper insights into the text.
- Wilson previously criticized Nolan’s film adaptation for lacking emotional depth, particularly in its portrayal of female characters and the themes of war, comparing it unfavorably to works like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Game of Thrones."
