Is the Lydia Davis translation as good as people say it is? Or should I just get Montcrieff for Swann's Way?
I think the general consensus is that Davis is better than Moncrieff for Swann's Way, but since she only translated the first volume you probably want to read Moncrieff if you're going to tackle all of Proust to avoid switching translators.
>>7973097
I have both, and I gotta say: I like the Montcrieff translation a lot better.
>>7973135
Same goes for me. I'd say the Davis translation is a bit easier to read and has helpful footnotes. But the Moncrieff version has more character and nostalgic flair to it.
they both have merits. obviously it's biased, but Davis's introduction explains how and to what extent the previous translation was embellished with unnecessary adverbs and figurative language.
>>7973896
i should add: both have their merits, but I highly recommend Davis.
You should either read Davis or Enright. Unedited Moncrieff is for morons.