Uncovering Writing

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The last time I read this book, it was Simon Armitage’s translation. I’d said at the time I wanted to give that version four stars but the translation just wasn’t that great for me. It didn’t flow and there were some poor word choices.

Now, finally, I can give four stars to W S. Merwin’s version. This is how Gawain should read. A fast story with flowing language that doesn’t get in the way of the tale. I read this in one sitting and took time to glance at the Middle English on each facing page. A perfect companion for the evening.