Megan McDowell

McDowell reframes the landscape of Spanish-English literary translation by engaging deeply with contemporary Latin American and Spanish authors. Her dedication to preserving the visceral and stylistic qualities of the source texts is evident in her translations, which often reflect a meticulous attention to detail. Influenced by Gregory Rabassa, McDowell’s method involves constantly querying what Rabassa might have done, thereby ensuring a faithful rendition of the original work’s artistry and intent. This approach has allowed her to bring works from authors like Samanta Schweblin and Mariana Enríquez to English-speaking audiences, thereby broadening the global appreciation of Latin American literature.\n\nHer translation practice is both comprehensive and impactful, highlighted by collaborations with major authors such as Alejandro Zambra and Lina Meruane. Her translation of "Seven Empty Houses" by Schweblin not only earned her the National Book Award in Translation but also reinforced her position as a pivotal figure in literary circles. Meanwhile, her work on "The Dangers of Smoking in Bed" gained recognition with a Booker Prize nomination. Beyond these achievements, her early career decisions, including a part-time stint at an investment bank in Chile, laid a stable foundation for her full-time literary pursuits. These experiences underscore the importance of financial and geographical stability in nurturing her translation endeavors.\n\nReaders, particularly those interested in Latin American narratives, benefit from McDowell’s translations, which offer an authentic glimpse into the diverse literary styles and cultural nuances of the region. Her work not only amplifies the voices of contemporary Latin American writers but also enriches the global literary canon. Through her dedication and expertise, McDowell’s translations continue to captivate audiences, making significant contributions to the cross-cultural dialogue in literature.