The Accidental Protagonist: Book Review
Endearing, controversial, genuine or stereotypically mean, a relatable character is key to any book plot. It helps if the protagonist’s life is eventful and glamorous, or if her job is somehow awe-inspiring or tinged with a hint of mystery. Add a drop of mischief and intrigue, some eavesdropping and world-changing encounters, and the magical spell is cast. Perhaps partially for that reason, […]
How to Land a TED Lesson
As I write this post, my TED Lesson on How Interpreters Juggle Two Languages at Once has been viewed nearly 800,000 times. In an animated video that is barely five minutes long, the lesson sheds light on an insanely stressful occupation most people know nothing about. The TED lesson makes viewers aware of the key […]
Mind your language, you @#x!$%* !
A few weeks ago, I was interviewed by the BBC in connection with an incident involving the interpreter who watered down parts of President Trump’s speech at the UN General Assembly that were critical of the Iranian regime. Detailed transcriptions of both the original and the interpretation can be easily found online. The interpreter was […]
How to Tell Stories that Stick
After 30 years as a conference interpreter, making sense of speakers becomes second nature. It is easy to see what works and what doesn’t in public speaking. Too many presenters adhere to a predictable presentation routine that goes like this: open with a busy overview slide cover every item in orderly fashion finish with a […]