(NEW YORK) — PEN America expressed concern today over reports that Veen Bosch & Keuning, a major Dutch publisher, will use artificial intelligence to translate a selection of books into English.
The Guardian released a piece reporting that the Dutch publisher, Veen Bosch & Keuning, is using AI to translate 10 titles. PEN America and the PEN America Translation Committee, said the following:
“PEN America is concerned by reports in The Guardian that Veen Bosch & Keuning, a major Dutch publisher, will use artificial intelligence to translate a selection of books into English. The purported distinction that this trial is for commercial fiction and not literary works speaks to the global publishing industry’s lack of appreciation for the art of translation and the vital role of literary translators in providing context, style, voice, and nuance to the texts they render in other languages. We reiterate the call from the PEN America Translation Committee’s 2023 Manifesto on Literary Translation for publishers to reverse the severe lack of investment in translated literature. Translators cannot be replaced by artificial intelligence. Culture cannot be automated without causing harm to literature and global culture. We urge them to reconsider their decision.”
About PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at pen.org.
Contact: Suzanne Trimel, [email protected], (201) 247-5057