Language As Purpose

There are artists who can weave through word and sound; some also have a capacity to create and lead. Christopher Martin has done this over many decades, and speaks to why and how certain playwrights and musicians continue to affect us.Hear what Chris learned, touring as a musician from a young age; creating and operating a successful repertory company in New York; and directing plays around the world. His observations about changes within music and theatre, and why the classics are still

Have you ever thought of translation as crafting a voice for someone? Take a listen to Ted Goossen, and consider the rhythm of a writer's voice.Ted is a literary translator, and professor emeritus at York University in Toronto. He is the editor of The Oxford Book of Japanese Short Stories, and one of the founding editors of the translation journal, MONKEY New Writing from Japan.Hear how Ted stumbled upon an opportunity for overseas study in Japan in the late 1960's, and how immersion impacted his

Today I’m speaking with Alina Fernanda Picayo. She works as a Spanish and English interpreter and translator. We hear from Alina about different forms of interpreting; what it was like to interpret during the pandemic; what having a command of language means; and what it means to be responsible with your words. We speak about what is involved in choosing the work you do, what interview processes can entail, and also about her work with immigration shelters within New York. Alina also works for a

Today I’m speaking with art expert, dealer, and lecturer Max Rutherston, a specialist in Japanese works of art. Max's career spans multiple countries and languages. We talk about how one approaches learning a new language, and the gratification of being able to communicate with someone from a different culture than your own. Putting time into a new language doesn't just distinguish one's expertise; it also encourages trust - and above all, comfort between human beings.