Sant Jordi is a Catalan cultural celebration held on April 23. It’s Catalonia's Valentine’s Day and it served as the inspiration for World Book Day. Couples, friends, and families give each other gifts of roses and books, commemorating the legendary slaying of the dragon by Sant Jordi - Saint George, in English. In this week’s podcast, we delve into Catalan literature and analyze its translation into English.

Host Beth Cohen sits down with reporter Cillian Shields to discuss the origins of the Sant Jordi celebration and its evolution over time. Cillian meets Peter Bush and Laura McGloughlin, two of the most notable contemporary Catalan-to-English translators, who reflect on what it means to translate a novel and explain their approach to the task. Both review some of their most iconic translations, including the works of Josep Pla, Emili Teixidor, Toni Hill, and Bel Olid, while discussing current trends and emerging voices in Catalan literature. Cillian and Beth wrap up by sharing some of their favorite reads by Catalan authors and exchanging book recommendations for this year’s Sant Jordi.

This week, our Catalan phrase is “Un llibre és com un jardí que es porta a la butxaca,” a proverb of Arabic origin that translates as “A book is like a garden carried in your pocket.” Just like a garden, books are full of life and beautiful details - but small enough to keep with you wherever you go.