Isaac Bashevis Singer, the famous Yiddish writer and Nobel Prize winner wrote with a ‘harem’ of dozens of translators behind him. Beyond simple translation, these women were a vital source of his creativity. The inspiration he drew from them came in many forms, often mixing romance with professional aspirations. Today nine remain to tell his story.
Many books, biographies and articles have been written about the life and work of Isaac Bashevis Singer. An exclusive discovery of the filmmakers brings to light a hitherto unknown chapter of his life. In the mid 1960’s Bashevis Singer established an army of female translators – more than forty women – who helped spread his work. He chose his translators carefully, was inspired by their presence, often falling in love with them. Nine of the women who were intimately familiar with the man and work are still here. Theirs will be the only voices heard in the film, as they allow us a glimpse into his complex personality and personal life.—Antena Productions
“You won’t read the famed Yiddish language author the same way again.” – Hollywood Reporter
“‘The Muses of Isaac Bashevis Singer’ differs from the usual hagiography-with-caveats convention that defines the genre…Many of the interviewees are not mere commentators, but subjects of the film themselves.” – Forward
“’Muses’ is most valuable in exploring this connection between Singer’s seduction of translators and his seduction of a worldwide readership.” – Prof. Ruth Wisse, Harvard University, Mosaic
