Manika, you are in an interrogation chamber. Since how long you haven’t opened War and Peace (W&P)?
The worst question… I think it has been almost 15 days since I last so much as touched the book.
Where were you when you read it last?
W&P is one book I don't have the courage to carry around outside. So when I read it last, it was at home.
Whose translation are you reading?
Translation? Well…. my edition was by Louise and Aylmer Maude.
Maude? Why not Constance Garnett? Why not Anthony Briggs? Or you don't care about the art of true translation?
You have hit the nail on the head! I tend to be a little concerned about publishers, but never about translators. Is that horrible?
Yes.
Oh.
Anyway, how are you finding the novel?
I was enjoying it, but got distracted by other books and other activities… very sad but will be back on track with Napoleon soon.
Is there any character so far who has captivated your imagination?
‘Captivated’ might be a strong word to use, but the character Pierre is interesting.
Do you really think you will be able to finish the epic in this life time?
Oh absolutely! I took up this challenge to take it to its logical conclusion. Though the journey has been slow, I know I'll read it at a pace that does not end with my abandoning the book altogether. Obviously it is taking time, but I don't want to forcefully rush the experience.
What other books did you start and finish reading since the time you started W&P?
I finished Dog Years by Gunter Grass and also Marquez's Memories of My Melancholy Whores. No regrets whatsoever of temporarily abandoning W&P.
Which book or books, apart from W&P, are you presently reading?
These days I'm reading Orhan Pamuk’s Snow.
I see. Do you feel guilty of being disloyal to W&P?
No, I never feel guilty about reading other books. I'm sure Tolstoy would understand.
How do you rate Leo Tolstoy? Be honest.
Sarcasm and wit always work for me. Tolstoy is a master with both.
Any last words?
I'm a woman of few words. Okay, that was the biggest lie. However there is nothing more I can say that will be of any consequence with respect to the novel. But I must say this interview was a good idea.
Is it a complement to the interrogator?
I suppose so.
Thanks. I hope you do live to see the end of W&P.
I remain optimistic, Mayank. Thank-you.
