This workshop is the third time we have come to the work of Nigerian poet Amarachi Attamah. Translating her poems offers an extra level of difficulty as we try to convey the power of her live performances while working with text on the page. In previous translations the group had done this by keeping the Igbo exclamations: ‘chai!’ and ‘hei’. ‘Chai’, as it is used in her poetry to express ecstasy, awe, and intense pleasure.
Come along for a unique translation experience, bringing this lily poet to live again in a new language.
Guest Translator – Joseph Ogbonna Ike
Joseph Ogbonna Ike, in their own words: Legend has it that no one really knows when Joseph Ogbonna Ike was actually born, or where. It is thus often said, that he came to the world when the world needed him the most. Upon arrival, he took on the language that most closely resembled what they spoke from where he came, Igbo and resided atop Milikin Hill, modern-day Enugu State. This is as much as we know. And this is all we need to know. Iseee!!!
Poet – Amarachi Attamah
Amarachi Attamah is an award-winning Chant Performance Artist, Poet, Broadcaster, Festival Manager, Creative Entrepreneur and a strong passionate voice in the sustainability of Igbo language speaking as well as other African languages. She is also one of the judges of the PTC’s Lagos / London Poetry completion.
Workshop Facilitator – Helen Bowell
Helen Bowell is a London-based poet and co-director of Dead [Women] Poets Society. In 2020, she co-guest-edited an issue of Modern Poetry in Translation (focus on dead women poets). She is a Ledbury Poetry Critic and her debut pamphlet The Barman was published by Bad Betty Press in 2022.
There is no need to know the language being translated. Simply come along and share your passion for words, writing and understanding.
Season Passes
You can get tickets for individual workshops or save money by signing up for a Season Pass. The saving on a season pass is equivalent to a free workshop. Concession tickets are available for the unwaged.
