Sophie Hughes

Hughes interrogates the nuances of language and culture through her translations, emphasizing the importance of retaining the original voice while engaging creatively with the text. Her work often delves into themes of violence, social injustice, and identity, reflecting a deep understanding of contemporary Latin American contexts. Through her translation of Fernanda Melchor's "Hurricane Season" and Alia Trabucco Zerán’s "The Remainder", Hughes demonstrates an ability to navigate complex literary landscapes, ensuring the emotional depth and rhythm of the original texts are preserved. Her approach not only captures the essence of the author's intent but also introduces these narratives to a wider audience, allowing readers to explore diverse perspectives and experiences.\n\nHughes's method of meticulous craftsmanship and fidelity to the source material has been widely recognized, earning her multiple prestigious accolades. She was a finalist for the Best Translated Book Award for Laia Jufresa’s "Umami" and received both a British Centre for Literary Translation Mentorship and a PEN/Heim Literary Translation Grant. These honors underscore her dedication to the craft and her role in elevating Spanish-language literature in the English-speaking world. Readers benefit from Hughes's translations as they provide access to a range of stories that challenge, inform, and resonate on a universal level, enriching the literary landscape with vibrant voices from regions often underrepresented in mainstream literature.\n\nHer bio highlights a career committed to bridging linguistic and cultural divides, with over 20 novels translated, including Iván Repila's "The Boy Who Stole Attila’s Horse". By situating her work at the intersection of language and cultural exploration, Hughes offers insights into the human condition, making her a vital figure in the realm of literary translation.