In a distinctive retake on a literary classic, Melbourne's Ander Louis is giving Leo Tolstoy's 'War & Peace' a uniquely Australian spin with his 'bogan' version. This creative endeavor transforms the high-brow text of Russian aristocrats into something that feels at home in an Australian pub setting. Louis, whose real name is Andrew Tesoriero, embarked on this project as a joke back in 2018, playfully converting the text so that characters talk in terms fit for the popular Aussie sitcom 'Kath & Kim'.
For example, one character's description reads, Just then, Prince Andrei rocked up to Anna's joint. He was the pregnant sheila's hubby. Like his missus, he was pretty good looking himself. This translation notably begins with the phrase bloody hell, setting a casual tone that is both humorous and relatable.
Louis’s translation flips Russian titles and cultural norms into accessible Australian vernacular, turning princesses into 'sheilas' and princes into 'drongos'. Initially intended for a personal laugh, he has unexpectedly found newfound popularity, leading to a potential book deal after gaining traction online. His irreverent and funny take on Tolstoy's work aims to attract readers who may have been daunted by the original's heft and complexity. As Louis navigates the world of publishing, he corresponds to the 'everyman' protagonist Pierre, claiming a kind of literary heist robbing the elites of their revered text and bringing it down to the pub. His whimsical and approachable translation not only entertains but also makes literature comprehensible and engaging for a modern audience.
For example, one character's description reads, Just then, Prince Andrei rocked up to Anna's joint. He was the pregnant sheila's hubby. Like his missus, he was pretty good looking himself. This translation notably begins with the phrase bloody hell, setting a casual tone that is both humorous and relatable.
Louis’s translation flips Russian titles and cultural norms into accessible Australian vernacular, turning princesses into 'sheilas' and princes into 'drongos'. Initially intended for a personal laugh, he has unexpectedly found newfound popularity, leading to a potential book deal after gaining traction online. His irreverent and funny take on Tolstoy's work aims to attract readers who may have been daunted by the original's heft and complexity. As Louis navigates the world of publishing, he corresponds to the 'everyman' protagonist Pierre, claiming a kind of literary heist robbing the elites of their revered text and bringing it down to the pub. His whimsical and approachable translation not only entertains but also makes literature comprehensible and engaging for a modern audience.
