Frankenstein: The Grey Translation
About this ebook
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is “an exhibition of intellectual and imaginative power” (Athenaeum). The groundbreaking book gave rise to the sci-fi genre and inspired countless works of horror. This new edition features a modern English translation of the story by editor Aldwin Grey. Retold with finesse and rigor, Grey’s translations enable readers to enjoy the classics in a fresh, clear voice. They can also be used as study guides or references alongside the original works. The source for this translation is Mary Shelley’s 1818 first-edition text.
IN THE LATE 1700s, a daring seaman is at the north of the globe when he sees a huge figure cross the ice. The next day a half-frozen man drifts forth from the fog. This stranger, a brilliant Swiss scientist, proceeds to tell his tale, which begins with a boy in pursuit of knowledge and ends with a man on the brink of madness. At its core lies a great secret: the ability to give life to lifeless matter. But in its shadows, there may yet be two yellow eyes watching in wait of a promise.
Original
“How can I move thee? Will no entreaties cause thee to turn a favourable eye upon thy creature, who implores thy goodness and compassion? Believe me, Frankenstein: I was benevolent; my soul glowed with love and humanity: but am I not alone, miserably alone?”
The Grey Translation
How can I move you? Will nothing cause you to turn a favorable eye on your creature, who asks for your compassion? Believe me, Frankenstein, I was good. My soul glowed with love and humanity. But am I not alone?
“[An] extraordinary tale.”
—Sir Walter Scott
Discover more
About the author
Mary Shelley (1797–1851) was born in London to political philosopher William Godwin and women’s rights advocate Mary Wollstonecraft. In 1816 she married poet Percy Shelley. Mary’s first novel, Frankenstein, was published anonymously in 1818. By the time she was 24, her husband and three of her four children had died, though she went on to write several more novels and to edit her husband’s poetry.
Aldwin Grey is an American editor and writer. He is the creator of the highly rated Grey Translation series. He holds an MFA and lives in Seattle.
