Times Employees Dive into the Iliad

In a unique initiative, a group of employees from The New York Times has formed a reading club dedicated to exploring Emily Wilson’s recent translation of Homer’s "Iliad." This gathering, held on the 12th floor of the Times building in Manhattan, reflects a serious commitment to understanding the complexities of the ancient Greek epic, which is set against the backdrop of the Trojan War and dates back to the eighth or seventh century B.C. Emily Wilson, a professor of classical studies at the University of Pennsylvania, released her acclaimed translation in 2023, noted for its contemporary and accessible language. Despite this modern approach, participants in the reading group, including founder Sydney Stein, acknowledge the challenges posed by the poem's length and intricate themes. Stein remarked on the daunting nature of the text, likening the reading experience to an odyssey in itself. The inspiration for the reading group came when Stein encountered an article about a long-term book club that had spent two decades delving into extensive literature. This serendipitous discovery prompted her to create a similar space for Times employees, fostering a community of literary exploration and discussion. As the group continues its journey through the "Iliad," they not only engage with the text but also connect with the rich traditions of storytelling and myth that have shaped Western literature for centuries.