Can a Bogan Twist Revive War & Peace?

Ander Louis, an Australian IT worker, has translated Leo Tolstoy's classic novel War & Peace into a "bogan" version, infusing it with local Australian slang and humour. By transforming Russian aristocrats into relatable Aussie characters, Louis aims to make the lengthy narrative more accessible and entertaining for modern readers.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Ander Louis, under his pen name, has created a unique translation of War & Peace that resonates with Australian culture. This quirky interpretation has gained unexpected popularity, particularly in the United States, leading to a potential book deal. Louis's approach is not just a playful twist on a literary classic; it serves to bridge cultural divides, making the story relatable to a contemporary audience.

Key takeaways

• Ander Louis's "bogan" translation of War & Peace uses Australian slang to modernise the narrative.
• The project began as a joke in 2018 and has since gained widespread attention.
• Louis believes his version makes the complex story more accessible for readers.

Timeline: how we got here

Ander Louis started his translation project in 2018, initially as a humorous venture. By 2023, his work caught the attention of a wider audience, particularly after excerpts were shared online. Here are some key milestones:

• 2016: Louis joins an online community to read War & Peace, completing it twice.
• 2018: He begins translating the novel into "bogan" English.
• 2023: His translation goes viral, leading to increased sales and interest from publishers.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent surge in popularity of Louis's bogan translation has prompted discussions about its potential publication. The project, which started as a humorous personal endeavour, is now being recognised for its creativity and cultural significance.

What was already established

War & Peace is renowned for its complexity and depth, often intimidating for new readers. Traditional translations maintain the original tone and style, but Louis's interpretation seeks to break down barriers by making the text accessible through relatable language.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While Louis's translation primarily targets Australian and American audiences, its success could inspire UK readers to engage with the original text or other adaptations. The use of humour and contemporary language may attract a demographic that typically shies away from classic literature.

Businesses and jobs

The interest in Louis's translation reflects a broader trend in publishing where adaptations of classic literature are reimagined for modern audiences. This could lead to new opportunities for indie authors and publishers who wish to explore similar avenues.

Policy and regulation

As Louis navigates the publishing landscape, he may face challenges regarding copyright and translation rights. The literary world is often cautious about adaptations, but the unique approach of his bogan translation could set a precedent for future works.

Numbers that matter

• 1,200+ pages: The length of the original War & Peace, often daunting for readers.
• 50 copies sold overnight: A surge in sales after online excerpts gained traction.
• 6 years: The time Louis has dedicated to this project, reflecting his passion for the text.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Bogan: An informal Australian term often used to describe someone perceived as unsophisticated or uncultured, but increasingly used fondly.
• Drongo: An Australian slang term for a foolish or incompetent person.
• Sheila: Australian slang for a woman.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Louis is likely to continue promoting his translation, seeking a publisher and expanding his audience through social media and literary festivals.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If a book deal is secured, Louis will focus on marketing his translation and possibly expanding into other classic texts to further explore the bogan translation genre.

Signals to watch

• Feedback from literary agents and publishers regarding the viability of the bogan translation.
• Increased engagement on social media platforms showcasing excerpts from the book.
• Potential interviews and features in literary publications or podcasts discussing his work.

Practical guidance

Do

• Explore classic literature through modern adaptations that resonate with contemporary audiences.
• Engage with local authors and their unique interpretations of traditional texts.

Don’t

• Dismiss adaptations as inferior; they can provide valuable insights and accessibility.
• Assume all translations are the same; each brings a different cultural perspective.

Checklist

• Consider reading Louis's bogan translation if you find classics daunting.
• Look for local adaptations of other literary works that might appeal to your interests.
• Stay informed about upcoming literary events featuring indie authors and their works.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As Louis navigates the complexities of publishing a unique adaptation, he may face challenges related to copyright issues and market acceptance. Additionally, while some may embrace the bogan style, others could critique it as trivialising a classic work. The balance between humour and respect for the original text will be crucial in the ongoing discourse surrounding his translation.

Bottom line

Ander Louis's bogan translation of War & Peace is a refreshing take on a literary classic, making it accessible and entertaining for modern readers. Its unexpected success highlights the potential for adaptations to resonate across cultures and demographics, paving the way for more creative approaches to classic literature.

FAQs

What is the bogan version of War & Peace about?

The bogan version of War & Peace transforms Tolstoy's prose into Australian slang, making it relatable and humorous, thus appealing to a contemporary audience.

Why did Ander Louis create this translation?

Louis started his translation as a light-hearted project to make himself laugh, aiming to create a version of the classic that would be enjoyable and accessible to others.

How has the translation been received?

The translation has garnered significant interest, particularly in the US, leading to increased sales and discussions about a potential book deal.