Translating Bulgakov: New Perspectives on a Russian Master - a podcast by Free Word

Mikhail Bulgakov’s 'The Master and Margarita' is an essential work of twentieth-century Russian literature, and the writer's persecution, along with his personal and artistic struggles with the Soviet authorities, is documented in his 'Diaries and Letters', which offer a captivating portrayal of a prodigiously talented writer who feels his talent going to waste.

Two renowned translators of Bulgakov's work; Hugh Aplin, translator of 'The Master and Margarita', and Roger Cockrell, translator of Bulgakov’s 'Diaries and Selected Letters', discussed the publishing history of Bulgakov’s work, the challenges of translating his unique prose and issues of freedom of expression in the context of these texts. Publisher Alessandro Gallenzi, who has published much of Bulgakov’s bibliography, chaired the discussion.

Wanderlust: Great Literature from Around the World is a monthly event series at Free Word.

To explore the Wanderlust events we’ve held so far and read about (and around) some of the books we’ve featured, click here: https://www.freewordcentre.com/explore/projects/wanderlust

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