[57th Modern Korean Literature Translation Awards] Kevin O'Rourke Award: Giraffe Is the Name of the World
Written by Danyao Translated by Ku Bon-seung Excerpt from 'Giraffe Is the Name of the World' The story I am about to tell is of the Giraffe, and also of myself. If I were asked to name the animals familiar to me, would name the meerkat that swivels its head this way and that from behind a rock, and the hyena whose eyes curve into a grin when it opens its mouth to tear at its prey, and the jackal…
![[57th Modern Korean Literature Translation Awards] Kevin O'Rourke Award: Giraffe Is the Name of the World](/img/19233435)
The 57th Modern Korean Literature Translation Awards ceremony recognized Kevin O Rourke's groundbreaking achievement with the prestigious Giraffe Is the Name of the World award. The award honors translators who skillfully convey the essence and spirit of foreign literature into Korean, earning them international acclaim and appreciation.
"Danyao," written by Danyao and translated by Ku Bon-seung, was the exemplary work that captured the attention of the esteemed audience. The story, which intertwines the narrative of a giraffe with the author's own experiences, showcases the translator's ability to bridge cultural gaps and evoke emotions in readers.
The excerpt from "Giraffe Is the Name of the World" paints a vivid picture of the diverse creatures and plants in the author's imagination. From the meerkat's attentive head movements to the hyena's friendly grin, each animal is distinct and memorable. The unfamiliar animals are recalled through the author's memory, painting a vivid picture of the African wilderness.
The plants, too, are given unique characteristics, from the sprawling acacia branches resembling a mushroom cap to the ebony ebony flower that soars like flames. The baobab, with its stunted branches due to a heavy weight pressing them down, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by nature.
The award ceremony celebrated the power of translation to bring diverse cultures and stories to life, fostering understanding and empathy across borders. Kevin O Rourke's remarkable work, as translated by Ku Bon-seung, exemplified the transformative potential of literature and the enduring impact of skilled translators.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
