Werner Patels

Biography

I grew up with German and English, and soon discovered the magic of languages. I began learning more languages, as each one represented a key to a door to unlock specific insights and knowledge. Don't be alarmed: my favorite toys as a kid included dictionaries, grammar books, and encyclopedias. So far, I have managed to acquire eight languages (some dead ones and also some that are still very much alive).

I have been working as a translator since 1987, and completed my Master's in languages, translation and political science in 1997.

History is a special interest of mine. I love looking back in time to find out what made people tick hundreds or thousands of years ago. One thing I have been pursuing as a sideline or hobby is the remastering of old music recordings; the oldest so far dating from 1908. I have decided to volunteer as a translator for World History (WHE) to help share and also acquire knowledge - after all, when you work on a translation, you not only facilitate its conveyance to a different readership, but you also always learn new things in the process.