Berlin cultural events highlight literary translation and Adania Shibli

Cultural events in Berlin are highlighting the transformative power of literature and translation. The Weltlesebühne, curated by Hélène Thiérard and Henning Bochert alongside Aurélie Maurin, is launching the festival ‘Übersetzen & Weltretten’ (Translating & Saving the World). The organizers frame human translation as a ‘utopian counter-concept’ to automated, algorithmic translation, emphasizing its ability to preserve nuance, cultural depth, and democratic values.

Separately, at the International Literature Festival Berlin, Palestinian author Adania Shibli presented her novel ‘Täuschung’ (Deception). The reading featured multilingual performances in Arabic, German, and English. Shibli’s work, which explores the lived experiences of Palestinians, has previously been a subject of political tension, notably during the Frankfurt Book Fair. During her discussion, Shibli addressed her metaphorical writing style and the linguistic nuances of the Arabic language.