How to Share your Translation
We accept 3 types of submissions:
- Original work in any language accompanied by a translation into any other language in which you are fluent (Please label both pieces by language.) Essays, poems, and short videos on multilingual and multicultural topics are particularly welcome.
- Additional translations of works already published here.
- Work by another author accompanied by your translation.
Submissions should include a Translator’s Note, in both languages, in which you reflect on the process of translating. Please review the Translator Guidelines below for more information.
The editors will read and acknowledge all submissions.
If we decide to publish your submission, we will ask for a brief (two or three sentences) autobiographical note (again, in both languages) about you and your linguistic history. You are welcome to submit these with your translation if you prefer. These will be included on the Contributors’ Page.
To submit artwork to accompany your piece or to submit short videos, please email Betty Litsinger (blitsinger@bmc).
You will retain copyright to any original work you submit. We do retain the right to keep the work in our archive or to remove it from the site. By submitting you agree to let us publish your work, including your writing, translations, bio, photos, and artwork. However, if at any time you would like us to remove your work from public view, please contact Betty Litsinger (blitsinger@bmc).
Translator Guidelines
- Feel free to explore any methods and follow whatever principles of translation you find productive. If you would like guidance or support, please email Betty Litsinger, blitsinger@bmc
- After completing your translation, write a Translator’s Note commenting on the experience. You might share the reason you wanted to translate the piece you chose. Perhaps you uncovered new meanings as you weighed vocabulary options. You may have run into difficulties or unsolvable problems. You might highlight aspects of your translation you are most proud of and those with which you are less satisfied. One paragraph is fine, and longer, more detailed reflections are fine, too. This Note will appear online as part of your work. Please write the note in both languages.
- Be sure to have a reader who is fluent in your language review your work. If you have trouble finding a willing reader, please let us know, and we will help you find someone. We count on you to complete this important step so that we all look good.