Linda Asher

Asher synthesizes the art of literary translation with a profound understanding of narrative style and nuance. Her work connects major European authors to English-speaking readers, a purpose defined by her time as a fiction editor at The New Yorker. This role equipped her with a discerning eye for literary quality, which she leverages to bring authentic voices to her translations. By translating complex works from authors like Milan Kundera and Georges Simenon, Asher ensures that the essence of the original text is preserved while making it accessible to a broader audience. Her translation of "Memoirs of a Breton Peasant" by Jean-Marie Déguignet, for instance, has been praised for capturing the vivacity of the source material, transforming it into a compelling narrative for new readers.\n\nIn her book translations, Asher interrogates themes of identity and existentialism, particularly in works like Kundera's "Identity," where she balances the philosophical undertones with clarity for the reader. This ability to maintain the author's intent while adapting to linguistic and cultural differences benefits anyone interested in exploring European literature without the barrier of language. Her career is marked by prestigious recognition, such as the ASCAP Deems Taylor translation prizes and being named a Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters of the French Republic. These accolades reflect not just her skill but her impact on the literary world, bringing to life the narratives that might otherwise remain inaccessible to English-speaking audiences. Therefore, her contributions extend beyond mere translation; they offer a bridge between cultures, enriching the literary landscape with diverse voices and stories.