Summer of Translation

By Matt Hawkins

World Languages and Cultures department chair Dr. Alexander Hertich enjoyed a four-week sabbatical to France this summer, where he translated a book and met internationally renowned authors through the French Embassy’s Cultural Services Office.

Hertich was the embassy’s lone American recipient of a month-long translation residency in Lyon, France, which allowed him time to focus on one project and immerse himself in the French literary culture.

The getaway included an all-access pass to the annual International Forum on the Novel, where Hertich heard Nobel Prize-winning author Kenzaburo Oe and met writers such as Nickolas Butler.

“The Forum was an amazing experience,” Hertich said. “After meeting and dining with several authors, my reading list has gotten considerably longer.”

Hertich spent the month translating “Le Livre” (“The Book”), a novel by French author Rene Belletto. Hertich previously translated Belletto’s “Mourir” (“Dying”). Hertich also attended several international festivals in Lyon and explored a part of the country he hadn’t seen in previous visits.

The experience gave him new material to use in Bradley courses and insights into French history and culture that will be useful contextual information.

It also provided a chance in a busy world to slow down, focus on a task and absorb more of the surrounding culture. He stayed in a former convent that is now a creative lab for people involved in the arts.

“It is extremely important for my growth to participate in the residency,” Hertich said. “With normal teaching duties and other commitments on campus, it’s difficult to concentrate on research at times. I’m thankful Bradley supports faculty when they have opportunities like this.”

Dr. Alexander Hertich translated a book during a month-long residency in Lyons, France. (Photo provided)