Royal Expert Questions Translation Error in Omid Scobie’s Book

An alleged translation error in Omid Scobie's new book, which named two royals as discriminators in the Dutch version, has sparked controversy as commentators cast doubt on the validity of the mistake.

The Dutch edition of the book identified two royals who were rumored to have expressed concerns about Meghan Markle's future son, Archie, leading to questions about how such a significant mistranslation could occur.

Veteran royal reporter Phil Dampier expressed skepticism about the translation error, stating that it was challenging to believe that such a mistake could solely be attributed to a translation issue.

Speculation arose that the error might have been a deliberate ploy to boost book sales, with expert Michael Cole suggesting that it could have been a publicity stunt orchestrated by Scobie.

In response to the growing scrutiny, Scobie released a statement addressing the translation error in the Dutch version of the book, emphasizing that it was a mistake that is being rectified.

However, the Netherlands publisher, Zander Uitgevers, referred to the incident as an error in the Dutch edition without specifically mentioning a translation problem, indicating a potential discrepancy in perspectives regarding the situation.

The explanation provided by Scobie and the publisher regarding the translation error has failed to convince some commentators, including Mr. Dampier, who reiterated his doubts about the authenticity of the claim.

He highlighted the implausibility of mistranslating two names and questioned the credibility of Scobie's assertions, citing past instances where Scobie had been less than truthful.

Dampier, author of “Royally Suited: Harry and Meghan in Their Own Words,” criticized Scobie for his alleged lack of veracity and labeled him as “Meghan's henchman.”

He insinuated that the naming of certain royals, particularly Charles and Catherine, in the book was a strategic move by Scobie to generate controversy and publicity, albeit at the expense of the royal family's reputation.

Recent findings on Tumblr suggest that Scobie was responsible for outsourcing the translation of his book, rather than the publisher, as he had previously announced his contract with Endgame for World English Rights.

This arrangement indicated that the translation of the book into languages other than English fell under Scobie's jurisdiction, not the publisher's.

Scobie's decision to sell World English Rights for his upcoming book to Carrie Thornton at Daystreet further solidifies the notion that foreign translations are his responsibility.

The intricacies of World English Rights versus World Rights delineate the extent of Scobie's involvement in managing translations, underscoring his role in overseeing the dissemination of his work beyond English-speaking territories.

Despite the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged translation error and Scobie's involvement in contracting out translations, reviews of his book have been largely critical, with major reviewers lambasting its content.

The negative reception from critics suggests that the fallout from this incident may overshadow any publicity garnered, ultimately fading into obscurity by the time Christmas festivities commence.