Key Facts
- ✓ A new collection of Flannery O'Connor's stories, titled "The Circle in the Fire," has been published by Alpina Non-Fiction.
- ✓ The collection is curated and translated by the renowned translator Leonid Motylev, who selected the author's best stories for this volume.
- ✓ Most of the stories in this collection are new translations by Motylev, differing from versions that were published in the Soviet era.
- ✓ The book includes commentary and analysis provided by Elizaveta Sharygina, offering additional context for readers.
- ✓ This publication brings a fresh perspective on the Southern Gothic genre to a modern audience through updated translations.
A New Literary Circle
Alpina Non-Fiction has released a significant new collection of stories by the iconic American author Flannery O'Connor. The book, titled "The Circle in the Fire," brings a fresh perspective to the Southern Gothic genre.
This publication marks a notable event for literature enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of O'Connor's work. The collection is designed to introduce her powerful narratives to a new audience while providing seasoned readers with a renewed experience of her unique voice.
The Translator's Craft
The project is helmed by Leonid Motylev, a celebrated translator known for his work on English-language classics. Motylev carefully selected the stories included in this volume, focusing on what he considers to be O'Connor's finest work.
His involvement ensures a high standard of literary quality and linguistic precision. The selection process aimed to capture the essence of O'Connor's storytelling, balancing her most famous pieces with other significant works that define her legacy.
Leonid Motylev chose the best of her stories.
"Leonid Motylev chose the best of her stories."
— Source Content
A Modern Translation
A key feature of this new edition is its fresh translation. The majority of the stories have been translated directly by Motylev, representing a departure from earlier versions.
These new translations differ significantly from those that circulated during the Soviet period. This modern approach aims to capture the nuances and stylistic subtleties of O'Connor's original prose with greater accuracy and contemporary resonance.
- Majority of stories translated anew by Motylev
- Distinct from Soviet-era publications
- Focus on capturing original authorial intent
- Updated for a modern readership
Expert Commentary
To complement the translations, the book includes insights from Elizaveta Sharygina. Her commentary provides readers with valuable context and analysis, enhancing the understanding of O'Connor's complex themes and characters.
Sharygina's contribution helps frame the stories within their literary and cultural landscape. This additional layer of content makes the collection not just a reading experience, but a comprehensive study of a master storyteller's work.
Looking Ahead
The release of "The Circle in the Fire" represents a significant moment for literary translation and the appreciation of Flannery O'Connor's enduring influence. It reaffirms the timeless relevance of her exploration of morality, grace, and the grotesque in the American South.
This collection is poised to become a definitive edition for Russian-speaking readers. It bridges the gap between classic literature and contemporary translation, ensuring O'Connor's powerful voice continues to resonate with audiences today.
