When the Forest ʻSpeaksʼ a Foreign Language: Ecolinguistic Challenges in Translating Green Discourse (Michael Christie’s “Greenwoodˮ)

Abstract

Exploring a work of fiction from an ecolinguistic perspective involves examining how language and narrative techniques depict environmental issues, emphasising the complex relationship between humans and nature and highlighting the interconnections among language, literature and the environment. In Michael Christie’s ecofiction novel “Greenwoodˮ (2019), trees function not only as a natural backdrop but also as a central narrative element, symbolising historical memory, intergenerational connections and an ethical challenge to anthropocentrism. Consequently, the concept of ‘green’ space acquires philosophical, religious and existential dimensions within the novel. Through his chosen narrative strategies, Christie underscores the importance of preserving the natural environment despite the degradation caused by human activity, prompting readers to reflect on the urgent need for new approaches to environmental sustainability. As there is no professional Ukrainian translation of “Greenwoodˮ, the authors of the article have translated selected excerpts from the original text. This translation integrates recent developments in ecolinguistics and ecocritical studies, making it a valuable contribution to the field. Such an approach reveals the artistic and translational potential of environmental literature in general and of ecofiction in particular.