Books that build bridges

Veronika Simoniti, a Slovenian writer and translator, has expressed concerns over the growing reliance on machine translation among literary translators. Her latest novel, Kako umirajo ladje (How Ships Die), marks her return to readers after six years since she won the Kresnik Award for her previous work Ivan pred morjem. The novel will soon be adapted into a one-act play by the renowned actor Ivo Babić, set to premiere in October at the Odru Male drame (Small Theatre). Simoniti’s comments come amid broader discussions within the literary community about the impact of artificial intelligence and automated tools on the craft of translation. Simoniti's concerns stem from her experience as both a writer and a translator. She has noted that while deadlines and commitments can be stressful, they often provide the necessary impetus to move beyond the comfort of routine. In interviews, she has emphasized the importance of human insight and nuance in translating literature, which machines struggle to replicate. “There is a certain intimacy in the act of translation,” she once remarked, “that cannot be fully captured by algorithms.” This sentiment reflects a wider unease among professionals in the field, who fear that the increasing adoption of AI-driven translation tools could diminish the role of human translators. The novel Kako umirajo ladje explores themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time through the lens of a solitary figure navigating the quiet decay of a coastal town. Its narrative structure mirrors the slow unraveling of personal history, much like the gradual sinking of ships described in its title. The upcoming theatrical adaptation promises to bring these themes to life through the performance art of stagecraft. The collaboration with Ivo Babić, known for his nuanced portrayals of complex emotional landscapes, suggests a commitment to preserving the depth and texture of Simoniti’s storytelling. In addition to her literary work, Simoniti is actively engaged in the publishing world. Through the publishing house Družina, she supports the production of approximately 85 books annually, spanning diverse genres such as theology, literature, social issues, and children’s literature. The house emphasizes the importance of language as a bridge between cultures and ideas, advocating for translations that go beyond mere linguistic conversion. Each book published under Družina involves meticulous collaboration with top-tier authors, editors, translators, designers, and other creative contributors, ensuring that each publication represents a unique synthesis of artistic vision and cultural exchange. The debate over machine translation has gained momentum in recent years, particularly as AI technologies become more sophisticated and accessible. While some argue that these tools can enhance efficiency and reach new audiences, others warn that they risk homogenizing global literature and eroding the distinct voices of individual translators. Simoniti’s stance aligns with this cautionary perspective, highlighting the irreplaceable value of human interpretation in conveying the subtle emotions and cultural contexts embedded in literary works. As the premiere of Kako umirajo ladje approaches, Simoniti continues to advocate for the preservation of traditional translation practices. Her work serves as a reminder of the enduring power of human creativity in an increasingly automated world. With her novel poised for theatrical debut and her ongoing contributions to the publishing industry, Simoniti remains a key voice in the evolving landscape of contemporary Slovenian literature.