Alfred Sant’s ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ Now in English

Alfred Sant’s ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ Hits Shelves in English: A New Chapter for Maltese Literature

In the heart of Valletta, at the bookshop ‘Għaqda tal-Malti – Università’, a small crowd has gathered. They’re not here for the latest bestseller from abroad, but for a book that’s closer to home. The English translation of Alfred Sant’s seminal novel, ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’, has just hit the shelves, and locals are eager to get their hands on it.

From Maltese to English: A Literary Bridge

First published in Maltese in 1987, ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ (The Sign on the Wall) is a seminal work in Maltese literature. It’s a story that’s deeply rooted in Malta’s culture and history, exploring themes of identity, politics, and societal change. Now, thanks to the efforts of the Malta University Press and translator Joe A. Saliba, this story is set to reach a wider audience.

“This translation is not just about making Maltese literature accessible to an international audience,” says Saliba, “It’s about bridging the gap between our local culture and the global literary scene.”

Malta’s Literary scene: A Growing Scene

Malta’s literary scene has been quietly blossoming in recent years. While English has long been the language of international publication, Maltese authors are increasingly finding their voice. “We’re seeing a shift,” says Kenneth Zammit Tabona, a local literary critic. “More and more, Maltese is being recognised as a literary language in its own right, with its own unique voice and perspective.”

This shift is evident in the growing number of Maltese authors being translated into other languages. Besides Sant, authors like Immanuel Mifsud and Clare Azzopardi have also seen their works translated into English, French, and Italian.

But it’s not just about translation. Malta’s literary scene is also thriving in its own right. The Malta Book Festival, now in its seventh year, attracts thousands of visitors each year. Local bookshops like ‘Għaqda tal-Malti – Università’ and ‘Books & Books’ in Sliema are bustling with activity. And literary events, from book launches to poetry readings, are a regular fixture on the local cultural calendar.

Yet, despite this growth, Malta’s literary scene remains intimate and accessible. As you walk into ‘Għaqda tal-Malti – Università’, you’re not just a customer, you’re a part of the community. The bookseller knows you by name, and the books on the shelves are more than just products – they’re windows into the soul of Malta.

And that, perhaps, is the beauty of ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ being translated into English. It’s not just about reaching a wider audience. It’s about inviting that audience into our community, into our culture, into our story.