‘Odyssey’ translator Emily Wilson: Nolan should've hired a screenwriter

The complexities of translating ancient Greek epic poetry and the cultural reception of Homer’s *The Odyssey* define the conversation with classics professor Emily Wilson. Wilson emphasizes the necessity of maintaining meter and oral performance qualities in translations, arguing that many modern versions flatten the original text's multivocality and pacing. She critiques Christopher Nolan’s recent film adaptation for its lack of emotional and psychological depth, noting that it strips away the divine intervention and complex character motivations central to Homer’s work. Furthermore, Wilson addresses the ethical challenges of translating sensitive episodes, such as the slaughter of enslaved women, noting that previous translators often imposed modern biases or moralistic judgments onto the text. Her ongoing work aims to capture the original's directness and structural integrity while navigating the inherent difficulties of bridging ancient and contemporary linguistic traditions.