The Delighted States: Novels, Romances, and Their Unknown Translators

Adam Thirlwell, 2010

Overview

This book examines the intricate connections between novels, their romances, and the often-unseen translators who shape their reception. It traces a lineage of influence, from Flaubert's 'Madame Bovary' to James Joyce's 'Ulysses,' and further to Italo Svevo and Gertrude Stein, highlighting how novels are consumed in translation despite the belief that style cannot be transferred. The history of the novel is presented as a history of style, and 'The Delighted States' attempts to navigate this complex landscape by mapping an imaginary country of readers. The book includes a new English translation of Vladimir Nabokov's 'Mademoiselle O.' as a companion piece.

Who it's for

• Readers interested in literary history and the evolution of the novel.
• Those curious about the role of translation in shaping literary influence.
• Individuals interested in the connections between major literary figures.

Key features

• Paperback edition
• 592 pages
• Published in 2010
• ISBN: 9780312428297
• Publisher: Holtzbrink(MPS)/MPS
• Includes a translation of Nabokov's 'Mademoiselle O.'