Flora drew translator english-spanish

We spoke with Chinese author Ma Jian and his English-language translator, Flora Drew, who is also his partner, about their collaboration on his work.

Words Without Borders (WWB): Flora—are you Ma Jian’s first reader? Do you ever advise on the writing as opposed to the translation?

Flora drew translator english-spanish

On structure or story, perhaps?

Flora Drew (FD): Since I’ve known him, yes, I’ve always been the first reader. By the time he shows it to me, it is a finished work, so I have never advised on structure or story.

After he finishes a book, he talks to me about what he wants it to say, then we’ll sit down and he’ll read it out loud to me from beginning to end. We’ll discuss it in great detail, and sometimes I might say, “That sentence isn’t necessary” or “Add some more explanation there,” but I’ve never had to suggest any fundamental changes.

WWB: Ma Jian—have you used other translators into English?