Oral History with Shelley Frisch

Shelley Frisch, a long-time Princeton resident, discussed her journey to Princeton, starting in 1973 for graduate work and returning in 1991. She expressed discomfort with the current political climate, particularly the co-optation of the 2/50 celebration by the president. Frisch advocated for a return to founding principles like separation of church and state, equality, and welcoming immigrants. She highlighted Princeton’s historical connections, such as Einstein’s brain being stored near her house and her interactions with descendants of notable figures like Kafka and Thomas Mann. Frisch emphasized the significance of Princeton’s past in shaping her translations and community life.