Join the Goethe Pop Up in welcoming author Julia von Lucadou and translator Sharmila Cohen as they discuss their recent project, "The High-Rise Diver" (German: Die Hochhausspringerin, 2018).

What happens when a society values productivity and performance above all else? In her debut novel, German author Julia von Lucadou paints a grim picture of capitalism’s impact on human liberty, well-being, and self-worth. This dystopian novel follows two women: Riva, the titular high rise diver who rebels against expectations, and Hitomi, a psychiatrist tasked with convincing the celebrated athlete to return to her duties.

Goethe Pop Up is delighted to present a conversation between Julia von Lucadou and Sharmila Cohen about the book, the process of literary translation, and the delicate balance that must be maintained between authenticity and readability. The talk will be moderated by Tanya Kelley, the host of the Goethe Pop Up's book club and a talented translator in her own right.

Image: © Suhrkamp/New Directions Publishing/Goethe Pop Up Kansas City