I purchased both the French and the U.S. versions of the novel Waiting for Bojangles, by Olivier Bourdeaut. The idea was to read the novel in both languages. As expected, that didn’t go terribly well, though I did learn some new French words. My main takeaway from this dual purchase, however, is that cover images—along with syntax, punctuation, paragraph breaks, and meanings—can and often do metamorphose in translation.
As you can see, these two cover designs are quite similar in subject matter, and yet strikingly different in emotional impact and conveyance of themes. I like them both, but in different ways. However, instead of analyzing them myself, I’d like to hear what you think.
Which cover do you like better, and why?
If you were in a bookstore, which cover would better entice you to buy the book, and why?
Did you choose the same cover to answer both questions?
I did not!
Presumably, your cultural background, taste in books, and artistic proclivities will all play into your thoughts and feelings on the book covers—so there are no wrong answers here. But there may well be opinionated answers, and much to discuss!
I would choose the English cover, because it’s more interesting. I imagine Mr. Bojangles being a figment of the woman’s imagination — or perhaps her muse. That’s why he is transparent, whilst she has the colorful dress. The French version looks too 1960’s and evokes for me the misogyny of that era.
I would choose the French cover if I had something old-fashioned or nostalgic in mind, since it looks like something from the 1950s or earlier, which I find very cool. With that said, I’d choose the English version if I’m looking for something with a more modern tint.
I like the French cover much better than the English version. The colors and the graphic are more enticing. The French cover is also more colorful and provocative which would lead me to believe that I might really enjoy the book.
I love how everyone seems to have a different answer to this question. I find that responses have been split pretty much down the middle. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, everyone!