„Eine sehr tschechische Art, nichts ernst zu nehmen“
Summary
In this episode of SWR Kultur Lesenswert, the host discusses André Hübels novel *Der Vorhang*, translated into German by Daniela Pusch. The book depicts a wealthy father who books a simulated vacation in 1950s Stalinist Czechoslovakia to teach his daughter a lesson, only for the staged experience to turn into a terrifying reality. Pusch explains how the novel uses this theatrical premise to draw parallels between past totalitarianism and modern surveillance technologies. The conversation also addresses the controversy surrounding the book’s use of black humor to depict a serious historical …
Topics discussed
Introduction to the novel 'Der Vorhang'
Context for the book excerpt
Audio excerpt from the novel
Introduction of translator Daniela Pusch
First impressions and translation commission
The premise and the double meaning of the title
Parallels between the 1950s and modern surveillance
Genre mix: Thriller, Grotesque, and Black Humor
Controversial reception in the Czech Republic
Challenges of translating cultural context
Specific translation example: 'links stinkt'
Translating humor and political incorrectness
Characteristics of specifically Czech humor
Closing remarks
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