Words Without Borders

Overview
Asymptote Journal, a leading venue for world literature in translation, announces its inaugural Close Approximations translation contest. The award recognizes exceptional literary translation into English, with separate categories for poetry and fiction. The contest is distinguished by its jurors: Eliot Weinberger, a preeminent translator and essayist, presides over poetry; Howard Goldblatt, the foremost translator of modern Chinese fiction, judges fiction. Their involvement signals a serious commitment to the art of translation as a creative and interpretive practice. The prize is $1,000 in each category. For poetry, translators may submit 5–10 pages of translated poetry; for fiction, up to 25 pages of translated fiction. The contest is open to translations from any language into English. The inaugural nature of the award suggests a desire to identify and celebrate emerging voices in translation, though established translators are also welcome to submit. Asymptote's editorial vision emphasizes translation as a vital, living art that bridges cultures and expands the possibilities of English. This contest aligns with that mission, offering a platform for translators to gain recognition and publication. The involvement of Weinberger and Goldblatt ensures that submissions will be evaluated with the highest critical standards, making this a significant opportunity for translators seeking to advance their practice.