Emily Wilson Retranslates Odyssey: A New Epic Translation 2026

Emily Wilson, the first woman to translate Homer's Odyssey into English, is retranslating the epic poem from scratch, promising a fresh take on the ancient classic. Her announcement comes after her acclaimed 2017 translation became a bestseller, praised for its modern accessibility. Now, Wilson is halfway through a complete retranslation, drawing on her approach used for the Iliad, which uses more lines than the original to vary word-length and pacing.

Why Retranslate the Odyssey?

Wilson's decision to retranslate the Odyssey so soon after her previous version might surprise many. In an interview with the New York Times, she explained that the new translation is "not a revision of the old version" but a complete retranslation. She aims to bring a different rhythm and style, closer to her acclaimed Iliad translation, offering readers a new experience of Homer's timeless tale.

Her 2017 translation was groundbreaking, making the 3,000-year-old epic accessible to modern audiences. The opening line, "Tell me about a complicated man," became iconic, even influencing Christopher Nolan's film adaptation. However, Wilson was critical of Nolan's movie, calling its writing "abysmal" and noting the lack of sex scenes, which sparked controversy and renewed interest in her work.

The Impact of Nolan's Adaptation

Christopher Nolan's film adaptation, starring Tom Holland, Zendaya, Matt Damon, and Anne Hathaway, was a box office sensation, grossing $264 million in its opening weekend. The film also boosted book sales, with UK print sales of the Odyssey increasing by 1,400% in the four weeks following its release. Wilson's translation was cited as an influence, but her critique highlights the differences between page and screen.

Wilson's new translation promises to be more expansive, allowing for varied word-length and pacing. She is about halfway through, and fans eagerly await its completion. This retranslation is not just a new edition but a reimagining, offering fresh insights into one of literature's greatest works.

What to Expect from the New Translation

Wilson's approach to the Odyssey will mirror her work on the Iliad, which was praised for its clarity and poetic rhythm. By using more lines than the original Greek, she can better capture the nuances of Homer's language, making the epic more accessible without losing its depth. This method allows for a more natural flow in English, appealing to both new readers and scholars.

The new translation will likely be published within the next few years, and it will be interesting to see how it compares to her 2017 version. Will it become the definitive translation for a new generation? Only time will tell, but Wilson's reputation ensures high expectations.

Comparative Analysis of Translations

Key Takeaways

• Emily Wilson is retranslating the Odyssey from scratch, aiming for a fresh approach.
• Her new translation will use more lines than the original, similar to her Iliad version.
• Wilson's 2017 translation remains influential, even shaping Nolan's film adaptation.
• Book sales of the Odyssey surged after Nolan's movie release.
• The new translation is expected to offer a unique reading experience.

FAQ

As Emily Wilson continues her work, the literary world watches with anticipation. Her retranslation of the Odyssey is set to be a major event, offering a new lens on a story that has captivated readers for millennia. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Homer, Wilson's upcoming translation is one to watch.

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