South African author Eden Venter recently launched the English version of his latest novel Wolf, Wolf at the Eastern Star in Grahamstown. The novel was originally published as in Afrikaans and has been translated by Michiel Heyns.
At the launch, Venter, author of the award-winning Santa Gamka, said that he did not want the novel to become a direct translation of the original story as he was worried that would kill the essence of the whole book.
Wolf, Wolf has been described by critics as both passionate and disturbing. It deals with complex relationships, homosexuality and pornography addiction. Venter says that he deliberately deals with themes which most people may feel uncomfortable to talk about because he wants to challenge them.
The Oppidan Press was able to sit down with Venter for a very quick interview at the launch:
OP: What inspired the title of the book?
Venter: “Well... It’s was honestly inspired by the children’s game 'What’s the time Mr. Wolf?' which I’m sure you played numerous of times during your pre-schooling.”
OP: What do you want your readers to gain from reading your book?
Venter: “I think every author wants the reader to enjoy the book, of course. But I feel that this is a different and mature story it is an enriching and intriguing story and I hope for the readers to understand the different themes like the complex relationship between father and son, as well as the danger of pornography addiction, because many people are unaware of it.”
OP: Do you think people in Africa, particularly South Africa, should all aspire to write in their mother language?
Venter: “Yes, I personally am very proud of my Afrikaans language and everyone should feel the same whether you speak isiXhosa or Portuguese. But if you want an international audience then I would recommend you write in English or Mandarin.”
As an author, how do you get your creative juices to flow?
Venter: “As a boy from Cape Town the sea and quiet scenery to clear my mind always gives me the inspiration to write.”
Wolf, Wolf is on sale at Van Schaik's in High Street, Grahamstown.
By Aphiwe Khambule
Source: http://oppidanpress.com/eben-venter-launches-new-book/