The other day, the poll on a translator forum asked how long we worked before taking a break. You will note that the question was not how often we take breaks. That would imply that most freelance translators stick to a rigid timetable. I, for one, cannot imagine that there are too many translators who... Continue Reading →
Simon, Garfunkel and Yoda
It all started when a fellow translator posted an image of Yoda, of Star Wars fame, on her Facebook wall. The speech balloon said, "OOYL", which, of course, is short for "Only once, you live". Despite obvious pronunciation difficulties, I prefer Yoda's rendition to the now ubiquitous YOLO. "My favourite, he is", I commented. "Ha!",... Continue Reading →
A blank wall
Ten days ago I did some painting. I am sorry to disappoint you. It was far removed from fine art, although I looked like a real masterpiece when the work was done. The medium: white interior/exterior PVA on one bedroom wall which has suffered the ravages of winter damp over the last three years, and... Continue Reading →
Rude comments collection
The most delightful public scultpure I have encountered is on a roundabout as one approaches Faro airport. It consists of an assemblage of slightly larger than life figures in various postures all looking up towards the sky. Made of limestone, on top of which much of the Algarve stands, they have the feel of being... Continue Reading →
Who am I kidding?
It is true: I simply opened the fridge and took the photo. Ice trays, one block of butter, one tin of evaporated milk (for use on a fruit salad imminently), and countless little plastic bottles full of ice.
Allow me to introduce myself
Call me old-fashioned, if you will. I like to be introduced when I meet people I have hitherto not encountered, even if I perform the introduction myself. Thus, the way is paved for the possibility of a sharing of common interests, whether in business, or for the delightful purposes of friendship.Upon introduction in the real... Continue Reading →
That elusive pair of jeans 