Lisa Dillman: Translating Worlds Between Spanish and English

In this episode, award-winning literary translator Lisa Dillman — who has translated more than thirty novels from Spanish and Catalan into English — opens a window into the art and craft of translation. She explains what draws her to a book, from voice and cultural depth to linguistic challenge, and walks us step by step through her process, from deep research to “entering character” on the page. Lisa reflects on being a National Book Award finalist for Abyss, how recognition has shaped (and pressured) her work, and what teaching at Emory University has taught her about language, literature, and nuance. From the role of translation in bridging cultures at fairs like Sharjah, to the impact of AI and digital publishing on the future of the profession, this conversation is a masterclass in how stories travel across borders. Listen to #Pulse95Radio in the UAE by tuning in on 95.00 FM or online at www.pulse95radio.net Follow us on social media: @Pulse95Radio #SharjahInternationalBookFair #SIBF2025 #LisaDillman #LiteraryTranslation #SpanishLiterature #WorldLiterature #Pulse95Radio