This workshop will explore the ins and outs of genital mention in the translation of literary fiction.

In many languages, our private parts can be described in neutral language, for example the French ‘le sexe’, which is applicable to either gender. In English however we often find ourselves vacillating between medical, pornographic and downright crude vocabulary.

Translators from any language are invited to join Polly McLean in a facilitated discussion of the impact on register and tone of these less than perfect choices. If you would like to contribute some problems or examples in advance, please email her on pollymclean@googlemail.com 

Polly McLean is a new member of the TA committee and a freelance translator from the French. Previous translations Lobster by Guillaume Lecasble (nominated for the ‘Bad Sex in Fiction’ award) and work for Portobello, Harvill Secker, Weidenfeld & Nicholson and Harpercollins. Her translation of the 2008 Goncourt prize winner The Patience Stone by Atiq Rahimi (Chatto & Windus) will be published in 2010.

Cost: £7.50 – all welcome.

Venue: The Society of Authors

For further information contact the Translators Secretary, JMcCrum@societyofauthors.net