Too often we hear that something is lost in translation, but who talks about what can be gained in the process, especially in relation to poetry? In an age of dwindling linguistic diversity and cultural homogenization, poetry translators build bridges across borders and between cultures, writers, and readers, introducing new syntactical strategies, rhythms, and image repertoires. Reading as translators is the deepest reading, a multi-layered engagement with sensorial experience—verbal and visual choices interwoven with the vibrancy of sound —at its core.

Join polyglot poet, translator, and literary editor Patricio Ferrari and Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, translator and novelist Forrest Gander in a conversation about poetry and the art of translation. Drawing from their own work, they will share examples—between languages—from Portuguese (Pessoa), French (Pizarnik), Spanish (Bracho), and Kannada (Kumudendu) as well as from their own works of textured poetry.

Parallel Stories is a literary and performing arts series that pairs art and artists with award-winning authors and performers of regional, national, and international acclaim. This series functions as a multidisciplinary lens through which to view the Museum's collection and special exhibitions.

This event is in person at Santa Barbara Museum of Art's Mary Craig Auditorium.

In an effort to create the safest possible environment, please note visitors who plan to attend an event in SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium must show proof of being fully vaccinated with a booster (if eligible) OR, in some cases, supply a negative Covid-19 medical test result (taken within 72 hours prior to each event), along with an official photo ID, before entering the venue. All visitors must also follow SBMA’s mask policy and wear a mask while attending events in SBMA's Mary Craig Auditorium.