The 21st annual Douglas Hyde Conference entitled ‘Lost in Translation - Amú in Aistriúchán’ will be held in the 4-Star Abbeyfield Hotel, Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon from Friday to Sunday October 17-19.
The weekend conference explores the theme of translation in a programme of panel discussions, readings, and performances featuring some of Ireland’s leading writers, journalists, and musicians. Going beyond the current debates, the conference explores the nature of language as a unique expression of culture and identity, illustrating why it is we value different languages when one would be simpler, and what is lost and gained through translation.
Journalist and broadcaster Cathal Mac Coille is director of the conference. “Translation is essential, impossible, and great fun, often at the same time. The challenge of conveying both meaning and feeling accurately can even arise between two speakers of the same language,” he says.
“Translating from one language to another is a daunting business. So is the much broader challenge of crossing the barrier between languages in order to present one culture to another. Douglas Hyde first showed his flair for it with his vivid translations of stories in Irish in Beside the Fire (1890 ) and of songs in Irish in Amhráin Grá Chúige Chonnachta/ Love Songs of Connacht (1893 ). The subject of the conference, therefore, makes it a particularly appropriate event to hold in his memory.”
The programme features leading figures such as Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill, Prof Michael Cronin, Dr Niall Brady, Pádhraic Ó Ciardha, Mairéad Ní Nuadháin, Pól Ó Muirí, Gabriel Rosenstock, Tomás Mac Síomóin, and Kíla as well as recorded presentations by President Mary Mc Aleese, Seamus Heaney, and Paul Brady.
For further information call (090 ) 6637259/85 or visit www.roscommonarts.com/hyde
