Alison Watts

Watts discusses the nuanced interplay between contemporary Japanese fiction and translation, creating a bridge for English-speaking audiences to engage with unique literary landscapes. Her translations extend beyond mere language conversion, embracing the cultural and thematic essence of the works she translates. Notably, her translation of Seishū Hase's "The Boy and the Dog" highlights her engagement with Japanese narratives that explore intricate human-animal relationships. Meanwhile, her work on "The Aosawa Murders" by Riku Onda reflects a fascination with noir styles and complex storytelling. By situating her translations within a broader literary context, Watts invites readers to experience the richness of Japanese literature.\n\nHaving transitioned from commercial to literary translation, Watts connects her readers with diverse themes and voices from Japan, therefore broadening the scope of Japanese-to-English literary exchange. Her bio traces this transformative journey, marked by the pivotal moment when she translated Aya Goda's travel memoir. This change in her career trajectory showcases the power of literature to influence and redefine professional paths. As an award-winning translator, her contributions have been recognized through accolades like the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation Translation Prize. Her methodical approach benefits readers and scholars seeking to understand Japanese culture and fiction, reinforcing the importance of translation in global literary dialogue.\n\nWatts's commitment to her craft is evident in her award-winning translations and the accolades she has received, such as the Kyoko Selden Memorial Prize for Translation in 2021. By meticulously translating works by authors like Durian Sukegawa and Naoki Matayoshi, Watts not only brings their stories to a broader audience but also enriches the literary landscape with diverse narratives. Her work, therefore, serves as an essential conduit for cultural exchange, allowing readers to access the depth and diversity of Japanese fiction through her carefully crafted translations.