Asymmetries in language and power - translation insights from Henning Bochert, Inua Ellams and Eve Leigh

In this talk, Henning Bochert is joined by writer Eve Leigh and poet Inua Ellams whose work Henning has translated. He will examine translation as a dynamic cultural practice that influences how societies perceive and engage with each other.

Drawing on his extensive experience in theatre, literature, and intercultural collaboration, Henning Bochert will unpack both artistic, and political dimensions of translation, focusing on sensitive language use and multi-lingualism. Henning Bochert will then join Eve Leigh and Inua Ellams in a panel discussion that will explore their writing and an understanding of how translators shape cultural narratives and foster cross-border dialogue.

This event will be moderated by Prof Wangui Wa Goro.

Kenyan academic, social critic, researcher, translator and writer based in the UK. As a public intellectual she has an interest in the development of African languages and literatures, as well as being consistently involved with the promotion of literary translation internationally, regularly speaking and writing on the subject. She has translated the works of award-winning authors, including Ngugi wa Thiong’o satire Matigari from Gikuyu into English, as well as Veronique Tadjo’s book A vol d'oiseau (As the Crow Flies), from French.

The event is brought to you by SOAS Centre of African Studies, CAS in collaboration with SIDENSI and SLCL Tafsiri Research Culture Group co-led by Dr Ida Hadjivayanis and Dr Carmen McCain.