"I am translating The House on the Hill (La casa in collina) by Cesare Pavese from Italian to Albanian.
The House on the Hill (1949) is set during World War II and follows Corrado, a teacher who observes the war from afar, avoiding involvement. The novel explores themes of isolation, fear, and moral responsibility.
Cesare Pavese (1908–1950) was a major Italian writer, translator, and editor. His works often reflect themes of solitude, nostalgia, and existential struggles.
This novel will appeal to readers interested in war-time narratives, philosophy, and Italian history. For Albanian readers, it holds special significance beyond literature, as it explores the role of intellectuals under dictatorships. Given Albania’s history of intellectual repression during communism, the book resonates deeply, prompting reflection on the responsibility of intellectuals in oppressive regimes.
Pavese’s prose is simple yet profound, with a melancholic and introspective tone. His fragmented narrative and evocative landscapes reflect the protagonist’s inner conflicts.
Key challenges include:
- Preserving the depth of Pavese’s concise yet symbolic language.
- Conveying the protagonist’s emotions, often implied rather than stated.
- Adapting cultural and historical references for Albanian readers.
- Retaining regional expressions tied to the Piedmontese setting.
The original was published in 1949. The Albanian translation is expected in September 2025. Some of Pavese’s works have already been translated into Albanian, including the novel Shoku (Il Compagno) and his Poetry."