Editorial Translation

Copyediting and proofreading are fascinating stages within Editorial Translation. The revision of a literary work does not only consist in fixing typographical, spelling or grammar errors, but it also involves a fundamental part of advice.

Style is the most subjective part of assessing a work, and advice in this regard is delicate but key. The figure of the beta reader is also an essential link in the publishing chain. When I am hired as a beta reader, my job is to bring to the author’s attention parts of the story that are confusing or don’t make sense in order to guarantee that there are no plot gaps and that the piece achieves its goal (it is entertaining, it makes people laugh, it keeps the mystery, etc.). The idea is to polish the piece so that it’s 100% ready for publishing. For these projects, I write an extensive report that I later on discuss with the writer. Being part of the process of publishing a book is a real joy.

The translation of a piece of work comes after the revision and beta reading of the original work and is subdivided into several phases: prereading, translation and revision. Respecting the phases of the process is essential in this type of projects, since consistency and continuity must be guaranteed and you never know if a certain place or nickname is going to be key to the outcome of the plot. Direct contact with the writer is hence essential. They need to be asked for clarifications and to provide nuances, and they need to be involved in the decision-making process.