In search of translator for complete works of Malta’s national poet Dun Karm

A mammoth task to translate the works of the Maltese national poet Dun Karm Psaila, has been launched by the national book council.

Dun Karm, a man whose love for the Maltese language was also inspired by his devotion to Christianity, will have his poetical work translated into English.

The Ħaż-Żebbuġ born poet has been staple of Maltese literature for the last 100 years and will have his iconic works like, ‘l-Innu ta’ Filgħodu (Reġa’ sebaħ Ja Mulejja)’ and ‘Innu lill-Madonna (Fil-Ħlewwa ta’ Mejju)’ adapted to be appreciated by foreign readers.

The book council said it wants the adaptations to be entrusted to an individual who can translate not only the words but also the emotions behind these works.

The project for the translation of the works of Dun Karm, who also wrote the island’s national anthem, is spearheaded by the National Book Council in a bid to see the works a founding father of Maltese literature read by international readers. The publication and administration of the project will also be handled by the National Book Council.

The Council is launching a call for an experienced and qualified individual that will take on the role of editor and translator of the book. Interested applicants will be asked to send their own works for assessment by academics and translators in order for the final product to be of utmost quality.