a quick question about gift wrap in Russia

[Irina Shevelenko]

It sounds to me as just “bags” (plastic bags), not even “gift bags.” 

 

From: SEELANGS: Slavic & East European Languages and Literatures list [mailto:SEELANGS at LISTSERV.UA.EDU] On Behalf Of Andrea Gregovich
Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2012 4:36 PM
To: SEELANGS at LISTSERV.UA.EDU
Subject: [SEELANGS] a quick question about gift wrap in Russia

 

Hello Colleagues,

I'm hoping someone can help me with a small translation detail I don't want to botch.  In a story, an old lady decorates her walls with, among other things, "чьи-то подарки в пакетах."  From discussions with the author, I'm clear that this is essentially gift wrap from presents people have given her, but I was unable to explain to him my dilemma... are these "gift bags" or "wrapping paper"?  A "пакет" usually seems like it's a bag or container of some sort, but I can see how it might fit as a description of regular wrapping paper.  I confess I don't know anything about Russian gift wrapping habits in the eighties, which is when this story seems to be set.  

Thanks for your help in clearing this up!

Best,

Andrea Gregovich

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