When Arabic-speaking Muslims from North Africa invaded the Iberian Peninsula in 711, they introduced unique architecture, philosophy, and social norms to the territory. The Arabic language deeply influenced the local vernacular Latin dialect, which eventually became Spanish. In the 15th century, this territory was now the Spanish kingdom and was presided over by King FerdinandContinue reading “The Arabic Roots of Spanish”
Tag Archives: Spain
Translation for the Wine Industry
It’s harvest time in California wine country! In fact, the 2021 grape harvest began early this year. I live in Sonoma County, and harvest time can be exciting. As fall colors begin to change and the air turns crisp, we see truckloads of grapes making their way down winding country roads. Floodlights light up vineyardsContinue reading “Translation for the Wine Industry”
The Price of Forgetting
What is the price of forgetting? “The Silence of Others” tells us that, for many parts of history, the price of “forgetting” is too high. “Es simplemente un olvido. Una amnistía de todos para todos. Un olvido de todos para todos. Una ley puede establecer el olvido, pero ese olvido ha de bajar a todaContinue reading “The Price of Forgetting”
Film: “Pain and Glory”
In the spirit of my previous blog post, today I’m sharing my thoughts on Pedro Almodóvar’s new film, “Dolor y Gloria” (“Pain and Glory”). Antonio Banderas is nominated for an Oscar for his role as Salvador Mallo, an aging director in the process of reflecting back upon his life. Asier Etxeandia plays an actor withContinue reading “Film: “Pain and Glory””
Film: Todos lo saben
“Todos lo saben” (English title: “Everybody Knows”) is a Spanish-language psychological thriller from Iranian director Asghar Farhadi. I was completely riveted during the whole film! “Todos lo saben” stars Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Bárbara Lennie and Argentinean actor Ricardo Darín—as well as a pretty exceptional supporting cast. I had a feeling this movie would haveContinue reading “Film: Todos lo saben”
Springtime Rituals
Our part of Northern California received heavy rain this winter. While lots of rain is a blessing to this often-parched part of the country, it resulted in quite a few gloomy days after the initial, exuberant rain celebrations had worn off. Now it’s officially spring here in the Northern Hemisphere – we made it! ApartContinue reading “Springtime Rituals”