In respect to the Man beyond the Bridge dialogue, I have my problems with the
title too, but not being a Konkani, Konkanni or Konkni speaker I beg leave to
render it (however inadequately or inappropriately) in translation. I find all
the comments tolerable enough, and interesting---except perhaps for the point
about not actually seeing the work because of the lacuna in 'appropriate
titling'. One could miss out on a good thing with that stratagem; better try
taking a peep at it anyway!
I happen to have on my shelf a vintage book---the Jonathan Cape, 1927 Volume
of Revolt in the Desert, by the celebrated T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia).
It is prefaced by the following 'Publisher's Note'.
PUBLISHER'S NOTE
It seems necessary to explain that the spelling of Arabic names throughout this
book varies according to the whim of the author.
The publisher's proof-reader objected strongly to the apparent inconsistencies
which he found, and a long and entertaining correspondence ensued between
author and publisher. The author's attitude can best be judged from the
following extracts which show questions and answers:
Slip # I: Jeddah and Jidda used impartially throughout; Intentional?
A: (T.E. Lawrence) Rather.
Slip # 16: Bir Waheida, was Bir Waheidi.
A: Why not? All one place.
Slip # 20: Nuri, Emir of the Ruwalla, belongs to the 'chief family of the
Rualla' On Slip # 33 'Rualla horse,' and Slip 38, 'killed one Rueili.' In all
later slips 'Rualla.'
Should also have used Ruwala and Ruala.
Slip # 28: The Bisaita is also spelt Biseita.
Good.
Slip # 47. Jedha, the she camel, was Jedhah on Slip # 40.
She was a splendid beast.
Slip # 53. 'Meleager, the immoral poet.' I have put 'immortal' poet, but the
author may mean immoral after all.
Immorality I know. Immortality I cannot judge. As you please:
Meleager will not sue us for libel.
Slip # 65: Author is addressed 'Ya Auruns,' but on Slip 56 was 'Aurans.'
Also Lurens and Runs: not to mention 'Shaw.' More to follow, if
time permits.
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