Journey to the West - An Audio Drama Series
The Fifth Monkey
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Bringing China's most influential fantasy adventure to your ears, with an original translation right from its source text.
The Fifth Monkey is an independent, multinational team dedicated to this project.
For subtitles, please visit our Youtube Channel. Shop at our Patreon store for transcripts and become a paid member for more exclusive content, visit: patreon.com/thefifthmonkey
We are also on Ko-fi(donation only), Bluesky, Tumblr, Weibo, Bilibili.
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thefifthmonkey/subscribe
Bringing China's most influential fantasy adventure to your ears, with an original translation right from its source text.
The Fifth Monkey is an independent, multinational team dedicated to this project.
For subtitles, please visit our Youtube Channel. Shop at our Patreon store for transcripts and become a paid member for more exclusive content, visit: patreon.com/thefifthmonkey
We are also on Ko-fi(donation only), Bluesky, Tumblr, Weibo, Bilibili.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 7, 2023 • 21min
Journey to the West - Chapter 5 Part 2
Wu Kong returns home to a hero's welcome, but trouble is lurking. Celestial deities arrive, demanding justice for his past misdeeds. A fierce showdown ensues as the Great Sage showcases his incredible strength and cunning. Expect epic battles, clever strategies, and a twist on the classic fantasy adventure that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats!
Apr 24, 2023 • 21min
Journey to the West - Chapter 5 Part 1
Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, known for his playful chaos, dives into his hilarious chaos in the Divine Peach Garden. He revels in his freedom, creating mischief alongside deities and immortal maidens. His antics inevitably lead to a wild drinking spree, showcasing his carefree spirit. Things take a turn when he discovers powerful magic pellets, prompting a frantic escape back to the Mountain of Flower and Fruit. Sun's mix of charm and trouble reminds us that even in Heaven, mischief has its consequences.
Apr 2, 2023 • 13min
Production Notes - Episode 4 | Bi Ma Wen as an insult/Heavenly King Li and Ne Zha
Discover why the title Bi Ma Wen becomes Wukong's greatest humiliation, revealing the depth of his character. Unravel the fascinating origins of Heavenly King Li and his son Ne Zha, exploring their pivotal roles in the tapestry of Chinese mythology. This reflection on culture and folklore highlights the emotional stakes of these iconic figures. Dive into the relationships that weave their stories into the legendary narrative of adventure and heroism!
Mar 17, 2023 • 25min
Journey to the West - Chapter 4 Part 2
Sun Wukong, the audacious Monkey King, discusses his intense struggles against the divine powers of heaven. With his clever tactics, he shares insights from his epic battle against the formidable Ne Zha. The conversation dives into how Wukong's combat brilliance allows him to triumph over celestial beings. Listeners gain a glimpse into the thrilling clash of powers and the evolution of Wukong's title as Heaven-Equalling Great Sage, further fueling the tension between earthly defiance and divine authority.
Mar 5, 2023 • 17min
Journey to the West - Chapter 4 Part 1
Sun Wukong, the powerful Monkey King, shares insights about his tumultuous journey to Heaven and his experiences adjusting to life among the celestial beings. He reflects on the unexpected disappointment of receiving a lowly job as Bi Ma Wen, a position he quickly comes to regret. Despite his initial excitement, the burden of this role drives him back to his home on the Mountain of Flower and Fruit, where he’s revered by his fellow monkeys. Sun’s tales reveal the tension between ambition and the harsh realities of status.
Feb 20, 2023 • 13min
Production Notes - Episode 3 | How to avoid going insane over animal names
Discover the intricate world of translating animal names in a legendary Chinese tale, revealing the cultural nuances that can drive one to the brink of madness. Delve into the mythical figures of Chinese lore, as the importance of localizing names for cultural accuracy takes center stage. Uncover the fascinating nuances of classical Chinese literature, especially the meanings behind animal names and their evolving significance. This journey highlights both the challenges and the rich heritage behind every name.
Feb 9, 2023 • 29min
Journey to the West - Chapter 3 Part 2
Sun Wukong, the formidable Monkey King with heavenly aspirations, shares his thrilling quests and confrontations. He reveals how newfound treasures empower him but also highlights the stark reminder of mortality that even he must face. The narrative dives into his audacious encounters with the Ten Kings of Hell and his unexpected invitation from the Jade Emperor, setting the stage for his ascent to heavenly realms. With wit and wisdom, Wukong challenges the limits of power and authority, making for a captivating tale.
Jan 31, 2023 • 24min
Journey to the West - Chapter 3 Part 1
In this segment, Sun Wukong, the charismatic Monkey King from the Mountain of Flower and Fruit, dives into his exhilarating quest for a powerful weapon. He reveals his daring strategy to arm his fellow monkeys for upcoming battles against humans. The conversation shifts to his bold confrontation with the Dragon King of the East Sea, where he obtains a mystical iron rod and enchanted armor. Wukong's determination and cleverness shine as he discusses the importance of strength and readiness in the face of adversity.
Jan 19, 2023 • 17min
Production Notes - Episode 2 | Translating Names/Implied Meanings/Numbers/Contradictions
Celebrating the Year of the Rabbit, the hosts dive into the intricacies of translating character names and their cultural significance. They share fascinating insights into the challenges of conveying meaning, especially with numerals like 108,000 Li. The discussion also touches on the theme of contradictions, exemplified by Wukong's interactions with his monkey children. It's an engaging exploration that highlights the depth and complexity of translating a beloved fantasy adventure.
Jan 9, 2023 • 19min
Journey to the West - Chapter 2 Part 2
In this podcast, Wukong, the legendary Monkey King, shares his whimsical yet heartfelt journey back to his birthplace. He recalls a mishap that sent him home and how he found everything changed. Wukong discusses his powerful magic skills showcased during a gathering and the chaos he faced upon his return. The thrilling confrontation with a monstrous foe leads to a bittersweet reunion with his fellow monkeys, blending humor, adventure, and the power of friendship in this captivating tale.
