Sometime ago–less than a year, but it feels like a lifetime–I completed a book I’m rather pleased with: 25 Great Sentences and How They Got That Way, an in-depth look at, well, great sentences and how they’re fashioned. WW Norton will publish it in August, assuming there is an August. In 2020, you never know.
Here’s the cover:
In moments of self-obsession–if I’m honest, every day–I google the title to read the prepublication reviews (happy about those) and to see where the book is being sold. I found some sites in various languages I don’t speak and google-translated the text. That’s how I discovered that 25 Great Sentences has a “foreign language museum product version.” Good to know, I think. I’m not entirely sure what that phrase means.
Important point: Far be it for me to criticize someone’s translation. How could I, when I once told a Spanish friend, in Spanish, the equivalent of “Pitifully, I have a former commitment and can’t meet you tonight”? Artificial intelligence software, on the other hand, is fair game.
Here’s another interesting sentence about my book, courtesy of the same translation program: “All the products purchased by members enjoy a ten-day hesitation period (including holidays).” Hesitation about what? To buy, read, evaluate, tear into little pieces, line the birdcage with? I’m not sure, but I love the idea of a “hesitation period.” Perhaps I’ll take one to decide what to hesitate about. And I’ll enjoy it, including holidays.
I read a few of the reviews, the ones in English. I’m so happy for you.
Thanks, Bill!
Sometimes I have a pitiful hesitation period after I buy something: “Should I return this? It doesn’t fit… But it’s so cute…”
So funny!
Hey, I’m sooo envious: “prepublication reviews (happy about those) and to see where the book is being sold” – so *that’s* what’s in store when one GETS published as opposed to SELF-publishes. Ay yi!
So happy for you, couldn’t happen to a nicer writer! xoxo
Thanks so much, Ellie. And I love your expression, “pitiful hesitation period.” I usually have mine before I buy something.
Yes, there will be an August (how hopeful I am), and will 25 Great Sentences be a big success (for sure).
Unfortunately, sadly, to my despair, books are quite expensive here in Brazil, but sooner or later the title will be on my shelf.
Thanks for your kind wishes! I hope you stay safe and well.