Charting literary translator collaborations in digital contexts

Abstract

Abstract This study explores collaboration in literary translation, suggesting a wider understanding of the translation process to also examine collaboration in various stages such as text selection, attracting publishers, self-publishing or promoting translations. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted for two research projects, the article outlines five literary translator collectives that have emerged outside of professional associations and that reflect changes in the publishing field. It discusses their origins, activities and modes of collaboration. The discussion sheds light on the distinct goals of these collectives, highlighting the diversity between market-oriented and socially driven approaches, their use of digital tools and the impact of the collaboration in the translation process and publishing sphere. The article underscores the significance of further research on literary translator collectives. It serves as a foundational exploration, pointing towards future research avenues into innovative modes of collaboration among literary translators and their influence on the global publishing landscape.