The Ghost Hotel

Abstract

My work focuses on the translation of parts of a horror/suspense novel called The Ghost Hotel written by Cai Jun, a famous and popular suspense writer in China.

The story centers around a mysterious wooden box and its connection to a renowned, ancient Chinese opera singer whose ghost seems to haunt the box and the guests of the Ghost Hotel.

The translation focuses on different parts of the three main sections that make up the story and novel. The three main sections are the introduction, where one of the main characters, Zhou Xuan, explains how he came into possession of the wooden box and the events that unfolded, leading him to the Ghost Hotel. The second and largest section of the novel, is one which includes the letters he writes to his friend, Ye Xiao, whilst staying at the Ghost Hotel. The final section is the analysis of the events that had happened, and Ye Xiao’s realization of the truth that had taken him along this intricate journey.

My interest in the horror/suspense genre inspired me to choose a Chinese novel within the same category. This was done to be able to explore the genre in China and see it expressed through the eyes of a Chinese author; Cai Jun is one of the most influential suspense novelists in contemporary China.