Literary translation
Literary Translations at Bohemian Dragomans® – Language as Art, with Sensitivity and System
Literary translation is one of the most demanding disciplines in the language services world. Because it’s not just about transferring words and sentences from one language into another. It’s about so much more: atmosphere, sound, rhythm, cultural undertones. In short, it’s about capturing the soul of a text and bringing it to life for a new audience.
Whether it’s a novel, short story, poetry collection, stage play, or biographical narrative – every literary translation is a unique challenge that calls for linguistic mastery, a literary instinct, and a deep understanding of cultural context. At Bohemian Dragomans®, we are dedicated to this very art.
As a language service provider certified to DIN EN ISO 17100, we guarantee not only the highest linguistic quality, but also standardized processes, qualified specialist translators, and professional project management – from your initial consultation right through to the print-ready version.
What makes literary translation so special?
Literature communicates not only through content, but above all through form: style, rhythm, choice of words, metaphors, and allusions. A literal translation would never do justice to these subtle nuances. That’s why literary translation is always also an act of creation. It requires the translator to recreate the text – without ever betraying its original spirit.
On top of that come cultural and historical references that are often not immediately understood in the target language. A successful literary translation must therefore be rendered in such a way that it evokes exactly the same impact in the new cultural setting as the original – whether it’s moving, humorous, melancholic, or dramatic.
Our strength: Literary instinct meets professional expertise
At Bohemian Dragomans®, we work exclusively with translators who are specially qualified for literary projects. Many of them are authors themselves, literary scholars, or have specialized training in literary translation. They don’t just master their working languages down to the finest detail – they also have the stylistic sensitivity and creative flexibility needed to breathe new life into literary texts in another language.
They are supported by experienced editors and revisers who meticulously review each text and polish it linguistically or dramaturgically as needed. The result is a translation that respects the original while sounding authentic and compelling in the target market.
Quality with a system: DIN EN ISO 17100
As a certified language service provider, we strictly adhere to the requirements of DIN EN ISO 17100, which sets out clear standards for translation services. Even though literary translation demands a high degree of individual creativity, we rely on structured and documented processes:
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Selection of qualified specialist translators: Only specialized literary translators with proven expertise and linguistic excellence handle your texts.
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Four- or six-eyes principle: Every translation is reviewed by at least one additional expert. Upon request, we also provide a third independent review – particularly for publications intended for publishing houses.
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Client-specific briefings: We work closely with you to precisely understand the style, target audience, and intended impact.
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Documented workflows: Every step – from the initial briefing and glossaries to final approval – is transparently documented and fully traceable.
This ensures your literary projects don’t just shine linguistically, but are also executed professionally and on schedule.
Your benefits with Bohemian Dragomans®
• Literary translators with a creative instinct and strong literary backgrounds
• Quality assurance fully compliant with DIN EN ISO 17100
• Tailored support through personal project managers
• Transparent processes and reliable delivery timelines
• Confidential handling of your manuscripts – naturally GDPR-compliant
• On request: support with publisher briefings, cover blurbs, and press materials
Conclusion: Literature deserves more than just a translation
Literary translation is a balancing act between fidelity and freedom, between the original text and the expectations of a new readership. With Bohemian Dragomans®, you have a partner at your side who understands this craft – and lives it with passion.