For context, I've been trying to get into the modern poetry of Southern Europe. Relevant to my question are specifically a couple modern Greek poets like Cavafy and Dimitris Lyacos. Specifically I'd like the input of a native English speaker, if possible, though actually I'd love to hear from others about their own first languages. My question is, some of these writers occasionally use Koine Greek (the form of Greek spoken from around the time of Alexander and into Roman Imperial Times). I've seen a few suggestions on how to approach translating Koine in an otherwise modern Greek text into English, including Latin-originating English words and various older forms of modern English. I wonder, what is (in your opinion) a suitable approach to translating that? And, relatedly, what's the earliest form of English a native speaker can understand, and what are the associations of this form of English? (I thought to ask about it in the general club, since it is more than one poet I've seen doing it, but if you feel like this post should be on a specific forum, I will definitely just move it to one of these forums.)

I heard on a podcast recently that no one reads short stories except other writers. Is this true? What do you think?

I enjoy reading short fiction, but I'm also a writer, so there's that lol. Interested in hearing from readers.

Alix Harrow defends short stories in this discussion, which I appreciated! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViAvHPHgcSk

When you read, do you like to make theories and predictions as to what will happen OR read blindly, learning with the main character as the story unfolds?

I had a major thriller/mystery phase a few years ago and initially I went in completely blind with no theories, just vibing with the story. But eventually I began noticing similar patterns and trends in all the books that had me guessing the ending earlier than I intended, which sucked because reading blindly is just so much more fun for me!! I feel like if I correctly guess what will happen, I’ve just spoiled it for myself lol

It may be too soon to say, but the Kajji character feels pretty flat. I understand the commentary on body image (how Manako Kajji is perceived by anyone), but the pacing is slow, and my lack of intrigue in this presumably mysterious character is making the read a bit of a drag. Am I headed for disappointment?

Susan seems like a profoundly lonely character. I’m curious to see how she changes through this novel, or through future ones in this series. I can’t imagine it’s easy to get close to anyone with her abilities and ancestry. The refrain of “someone like me” is very sad.

Novel after novel, Pratchett keeps surprising me by the silly writing interspersed with cutting character moments. I adored Equal Rites for that reason (and plan to focus on the witch storyline next, I think). He was fantastic at writing relatable and charming people.

Someone please tell me in which chapter does it get interesting? It's kinda boring right now, but since it's a longer book I understand it needs some time to get to the point and I don't want to dnf it too early, help 🙏🏼😭