Skip to content

Around the world Quote by Nathan Englander

“To me, when one is writing sometimes about a very specific subject with very specific people, I feel like if that story doesn't cross over, it's not working. That's very beautiful to me, to be sitting in Berlin and there's an actor reading my book in German. I don't even know what's going on…” quote by Nathan Englander
Download Open image
“To me, when one is writing sometimes about a very specific subject with very specific people, I feel like if that story doesn't cross over, it's not working. That's very beautiful to me, to be sitting in Berlin and there's an actor reading my book in German. I don't even know what's going on, except I know to feel my own rhythms in another language and say, "If this is going well, I think everyone should laugh around now." Then maybe there's laughter, and for me, it reminds me of how story can move around the world.”

Nathan Englander

About This Quote

Source Interview: Literary Magazine, 2023

The author believes a story must transcend its specific context to resonate universally, showing that language and setting can be fluid.

In simple terms: Stories should work beyond their original setting.

Key Takeaway

Aim for universal resonance in storytelling.

Themes

universality translation creativity

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive reflective

Type

literary philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • multilingual performances
  • global publishing
  • theatrical readings

Key Concepts

cultural adaptation narrative fluidity cross‑cultural communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you preserve authenticity while reaching wider audiences?
  • What challenges arise when translating nuance?
A Different Perspective

Risk of diluting cultural specificity.

4.4 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Nathan Englander

Explore all 84 Nathan Englander quotes

More Around the world quotes

Browse all 3,351 Around the world quotes