Alfred Sant’s ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ Released in English
In the heart of Valletta, at the historic bookshop ‘Librospitali’, a small crowd gathered on a sunny afternoon. They were not there for the latest bestseller, but for a literary event that had been a long time coming. The English translation of Alfred Sant’s seminal novel, ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’, was finally here.
From Maltese to English: A Literary Journey
The novel, originally published in Maltese in 1985, is a seminal work in Maltese literature. It’s a story that explores the complexities of Maltese society, culture, and politics during the late 1970s and early 1980s. For many Maltese, it’s a tale that resonates deeply, a mirror reflecting their own experiences and history. But until now, it was a story largely inaccessible to the international community.
Alfred Sant, a former Prime Minister of Malta, is known for his political career, but it’s his literary prowess that has left an indelible mark on Maltese culture. ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ is a testament to that. The novel, translated by renowned Maltese-English translator Joe Aquilina, is now set to reach a wider audience.
Unraveling the Story: A Q&A with Alfred Sant
At the book launch, Sant spoke about the novel, its themes, and the significance of its English translation. “The story is set in a specific time and place, but the themes are universal,” he said. “It’s about identity, belonging, and the struggle for change. I believe these are themes that resonate with readers anywhere in the world.”
When asked about the delay in translation, Sant laughed, “Well, politics kept me busy for a while. But I’m glad it’s finally happening. It’s important for Maltese literature to reach a global audience.”
Reviving Literary Tourism
The launch of ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ in English comes at a time when Malta is looking to revive its literary tourism. The island nation, known for its rich history and culture, is eager to attract literary enthusiasts from around the world. This novel, with its unique Maltese perspective, could be a significant draw.
Dr. Loranne Vella, a literary scholar and the director of the Malta Literary Festival, sees great potential in this development. “Malta has a wealth of literary talent,” she says. “But our literary scene has been largely confined to Maltese speakers. The English translation of ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’ is a step towards changing that.”
As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace, the crowd at ‘Librospitali’ dispersed, each carrying a copy of ‘Silġ fuq Kemmuna’. The novel, once a local secret, was now ready to take its place on the global literary stage.
