Interview with Robert N. Schwartz

Abstract

In this interview with Fernanda Vizcaíno, the late Robert N. Schwartz (1934-2021) discusses his collaboration with his son, John Pedro Schwartz, in translating into English three volumes by Fernando Pessoa: Poetry—Minimal Anthology (Tinta-da-china, 2020); Message; and Prose—Minimal Anthology. Both the origin and the process of this collaboration are covered. Dr. Schwartz shares his background in the Portuguese language. He explains how he parlayed his prose skills, honed over a long career in history, journalism, and political commentary, into the genre of poetry translation. He reveals the principles guiding their translation of both poetry and prose. His most memorable poems receive mention. His experience of reading Pessoa’s poetry for the first time is described.

Keywords

• pessoa, fernando
• schwartz, robert n.
• schwartz, john pedro
• translations
• rhyme
• poetics
• interviews