10/5 Reading Comments

 I liked how Carpenter said that Mizumura's contribution to English literature was weaving together the "I-novel" and true novel. I also really liked how the book made it sound like Carpenter added in some context for the English reader, but in actuality it was Mizumura who wrote it in order to bridge the gap for those who might not know Japanese culture as well. I appreciate authors that keep their audience and those even outside of that audience in mind when they write.

It was interesting that Carpenter liked Seidensticker so much. I did like his translation of Snow Country, but in his article that we read earlier, he made it sound as if he was being criticized from every angle. I also found it really interesting to read her translations from the picture book and how she broke down her thought process for every word. This just reminded me of how much time and effort is put into the translating process and this just furthers my respect for those who do it.