Lucknow: The Metaphor Literature Festival in Lucknow commenced with the release of the Hindi translation of Angelika Overath’s German novel, skillfully rendered by Dr. Shipra Chaturvedi. The event saw the launch of the book by Chief Guest Dr. Sudhakar Adeeb and was presided over by Dr. Neeraj Chaubey. Dr. Geeta Chaturvedi hosted the program, while Dr. Sujata Chaturvedi eloquently highlighted the literary nuances of the novel.
The session attracted a large audience, where attendees not only listened with interest but also actively engaged in discussions, raising thought-provoking queries about the book.
The novel delves into the challenges of a small Swiss village enveloped by snow for most of the year. This village, home to speakers of Romansch—a minority language and one of Switzerland’s four official languages—grapples with dwindling population, fading linguistic heritage, overtourism threatening its pristine environment, and the struggles of its local people.
Told through diary entries, the book captures the poignant reflections of an individual transitioning from the chaos of city life to the tranquility of a remote Swiss village. It beautifully portrays the dilemmas and resilience of the villagers, weaving a tale of survival, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Sudhakar Adeeb, the Chief Guest, praised the translation, applauding how it preserved the emotional depth of the original while giving readers a sense of originality. Dr. Neeraj Chaubey, in his presidential remarks, commended Dr. Shipra Chaturvedi’s efforts, urging her to continue building cultural bridges through such noteworthy translations.
This remarkable literary work sheds light on the profound shifts in lifestyle and identity while fostering a deeper understanding of cultural and environmental issues faced by marginalized communities. The event set an enriching tone for the festival, celebrating literature as a medium for global connection.
