Backlit is a series of groundbreaking conversations with emerging authors. Hosted by Abena Ntoso, each empowering discussion goes behind the literature and beyond it, inspiring intellectual and creative engagement around social issues. Built on authentic curiosity and camaraderie, Backlit transcends literary discourse to become a generative space documenting the emergence of new perspectives and new possibilities for life and work. 

Backlit queries can be sent to info@bricolagelit.com with the subject line "Backlit Query"

What can literary translation teach us about life? How does our attention to language generate hope and lead to new opportunities? In this episode of Backlit, writer and translator Marguerite Feitlowitz joins me in generating ideas for deepening understanding and stimulating creativity, inspired by her translation of Ennio Moltedo’s groundbreaking collection, Night. Brimming with imagination, humanity, and hope, Marguerite’s work embodies the creative potential present in our use of language as a way to connect with one another across cultures.

Topics discussed:

• Challenges of literary translation

• What one learns from translating poetry

• Paying attention to language 

• … and what it teaches us about paying attention

• How careful attention and serendipity lead to opportunities 

• Documentary surreal

• Using literature as a springboard for learning about history and culture

• Triangle of hope — history, present, and creativity

Literary Translation Publishers & Resources:

• Open Letter Books

• Words Without Borders

• Asymptote

• American Literary Translators Association

• PEN America Translation Committee

Links:

• Episode Webpage

• Purchase Night by Ennio Moltedo, translated by Marguerite Feitlowitz

• Other books by Marguerite Feitlowitz

• Author Website: Marguerite Feitlowitz

How do we define and redefine ourselves as individuals? As a society? How do dialogue and correspondence move us toward real freedom and growth? In this episode of Backlit, poets Donnelle McGee and Synnika Lofton join me in generating ideas for exploring and revising ourselves and our world, inspired by their poetry collection, American Reverie.

Topics discussed:

• Inspiration from music and poetry

• Exploring and shaping identity through writing

• What’s next for American philosophy & culture 

• Tips for writing and revision

• Correspondence as communication & art form

• Inspiration & growth through writing and conversation 

• Literary practice & freedom

Links:

• Episode Webpage 

• Purchase books by Donnelle McGee, Synnika Lofton

• Author Website: Donnelle McGee, Synnika Lofton 

The Industrial Age has come to a close, and we are now in the midst of the Information Age—or are we past it? In this episode of Backlit, poet Laura-Gray Street joins us in a brainstorming conversation inspired by her recent poetry collection, Just Labor. Weaving together gender, industrialization, ecology and work, Laura-Gray’s work sparks new insights as we approach literature and life as an opportunity for discovery. 

Topics discussed:

• Writing as a journey of discovery

• Impact of AI & gender issues on work 

• The silence of privilege

• Writing ecopoetry & addressing environmental justice

• Teaching writing & the case for small classes

• Humanity & the work of caring for one another

• Writing inspiration & weaving together ideas 

Links:

• Episode Webpage with transcript

• Purchase books by Laura Gray Street

• Author Website: Laura-Gray Street