Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Vineyards of Unspoken Hearts: A Winter Reunion
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-23-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die lug in Stellenbosch was helder en koud, die winter se asem wat soos 'n sagte kombers oor die wingerde lê.
En: The air in Stellenbosch was clear and cold, the breath of winter lying like a soft blanket over the vineyards.

Af: Dit was 'n perfekte dag vir die kuier saam met vriende op die wynlandgoed.
En: It was a perfect day for a gathering with friends at the wine estate.

Af: Anja, Johan en Elsie het aan die onderkant van die heuwel gestaan en uitgekyk oor die uitgestrekte wingerde, hul geskiedenis saam verenig in elke kronkel van die druiflote voor hulle.
En: Anja, Johan, and Elsie stood at the bottom of the hill, looking out over the sprawling vineyards, their shared history united in every twist of the grapevines before them.

Af: Anja het geweet hierdie vakansie was nodig.
En: Anja knew this vacation was necessary.

Af: Sy het soos 'n satelliet gevoel wat van haar wentelbaan af geslinger is, haar vriende se lewens draaiend in 'n nuwe rigting.
En: She felt like a satellite flung out of orbit, her friends’ lives spinning in a new direction.

Af: Metaal geur van gedroogde druiwe het in die lug gehang, soom van wat hulle weet speelgoed met wat nog moet kom.
En: The metallic scent of dried grapes hung in the air, a hint of what they knew played with what was yet to come.

Af: Elsie het die stilte gebreek met 'n klompie grappies.
En: Elsie broke the silence with a string of jokes.

Af: “Kom ons gaan proe daardie wyn! Ek kan hoor hoe roep dit my naam!” het sy uitgespook, haar woorde vrolik en lewendig.
En: “Let's go taste that wine! I can hear it calling my name!” she exclaimed, her words joyful and lively.

Af: Tóg, in haar oë, sien Anja iets anders – 'n dieper angs oor die toekoms.
En: Yet, in her eyes, Anja saw something different – a deeper anxiety about the future.

Af: Johan het langs Anja gestaan, sy hand effens te lank in sy sakke gedruk.
En: Johan stood next to Anja, his hand pressed a little too long in his pockets.

Af: Hy was 'n konstante teenwoordigheid, maar daar was 'n afstand tussen hulle wat jy nie in kilometers kan meet nie.
En: He was a constant presence, but there was a distance between them that couldn't be measured in kilometers.

Af: Sy hart het swaar teen dinge geslaan wat hy nie hardop kon uitspreek nie.
En: His heart was heavy with things he couldn’t express aloud.

Af: Die groep het die smaakvertrek binnegestap, die reuk van eikehout en wyn wat in die lug hang.
En: The group stepped into the tasting room, the scent of oak and wine lingering in the air.

Af: Die kaggel het warm geknetter, maar die warmte het nie die koue van hul onuitgesproke gedagtes verdryf nie.
En: The fireplace crackled warmly, but the warmth did not drive away the chill of their unspoken thoughts.

Af: Met elke slukkie wyn het die stilte tussen hulle gestrek, soos 'n lont wat stadig maar seker nader aan die vuurtjie beweeg.
En: With each sip of wine, the silence between them stretched, like a fuse slowly but surely moving closer to the fire.

Af: Uiteindelik het Anja diep asemgehaal.
En: Finally, Anja took a deep breath.

Af: Sy het opgekyk.
En: She looked up.

Af: "Ek het julle gemis," het sy gesê.
En: "I’ve missed you all," she said.

Af: Haar stem was sag, amper bang om die stilte te verbreek.
En: Her voice was soft, almost afraid to break the silence.

Af: "Ek voel of...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Light Up the Solstice: A Family's Magical Garden Walk
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-22-22-34-01-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die lug was skerp en helder in die wintersonnetjie soos Thabo saam met Elsa en Liam die uitgebreide paadjies van die Kirstenbosch Nasionale Botaniese Tuin binnegaan.
En: The air was crisp and clear in the winter sun as Thabo entered the winding paths of the Kirstenbosch Nasionale Botaniese Tuin with Elsa and Liam.

Af: Die tuin, met sy draaiende paaie en verskeidenheid van plantsoorte, bied 'n rustige toevlug in die hartjie van Kaapstad.
En: The garden, with its twisting paths and variety of plant species, offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kaapstad.

Af: Thabo loer ondersoekend na sy kinders terwyl hulle loop, sy hande diep in sy sakke weggesteek om hulle warm te hou.
En: Thabo glances scrutinizingly at his children as they walk, his hands tucked deep in his pockets to keep them warm.

Af: Elsa se oë dwaal oor die landskap, maar haar gesig verraai min entoesiasme.
En: Elsa's eyes wander over the landscape, but her face reveals little enthusiasm.

Af: Liam stap traag 'n paar treë agter hulle, sy skouers effens laat sak.
En: Liam trudges a few steps behind them, his shoulders slightly slumped.

Af: "Vandag vier ons die Wintersonstilstand," begin Thabo toe hulle by 'n groenerige strook vol winterblomme stilhou.
En: "Today we celebrate the Winter Solstice," begins Thabo as they stop at a greenish stretch filled with winter flowers.

Af: "Ons gaan iets besonders beleef.
En: "We're going to experience something special."

Af: " Hy probeer entoesiasme by sy kinders prikkel.
En: He tries to spark enthusiasm in his children.

Af: "Wat is dit?
En: "What is it?"

Af: " vra Liam, sy stem ietwat ongeïnteresseerd.
En: asks Liam, his voice somewhat disinterested.

Af: Thabo glimlag en kyk op na die hoë bome wat weens die koel briesie fluister.
En: Thabo smiles and looks up at the tall trees that whisper due to the cool breeze.

Af: "Dit is die kortste dag van die jaar.
En: "It is the shortest day of the year.

Af: 'n Spesiale dag in baie kulture.
En: A special day in many cultures."

Af: ""Kan ons gaan kyk na die ou groot klok?
En: "Can we go see the old big clock?"

Af: " vra Elsa skielik, onthou sy het gehoor van 'n ou horlosie wat in die tuin is, wat haar nuuskierigheid prikkel.
En: Elsa suddenly asks, remembering she heard about an old clock in the garden, which piques her curiosity.

Af: Thabo sien sy kans.
En: Thabo sees his chance.

Af: "Natuurlik, dis 'n uitstekende idee.
En: "Of course, that's an excellent idea.

Af: Daar is ook 'n wonderlike vertoning later van ligte.
En: There is also a wonderful display of lights later."

Af: "Met 'n bietjie meer afwagting, stap hulle die rigting van die ou horlosie in, deur 'n deel van die tuin wat bekend staan vir sy immergroen bome.
En: With a little more anticipation, they head in the direction of the old clock, through a part of the garden known for its evergreen trees.

Af: Die geur van nat aarde hang swaar in die lug, gemeng met die vars aroma van dennenaalde.
En: The scent of wet earth hangs heavily in the air, mingled with the fresh aroma of pine needles.

Af: Hulle arriveer by die reuse ou horlosie en Elsa bestudeer die ingewikkelde wyserplate met belangstelling.
En: They arrive at the gigantic old clock and Elsa studies the intricate clock faces with interest.

Af: Thabo se hart lig...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: From Museum to Heart: Pieter's Perfect Gift Quest
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-21-22-34-01-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Dit was 'n koue winterdag by die Iziko Suid-Afrikaanse Museum.
En: It was a cold winter's day at the Iziko Suid-Afrikaanse Museum.

Af: Die lug was vars, en Pieter se asem het in klein wolkies voor hom uitgekom terwyl hy en Anika na die museum se ingang geloop het.
En: The air was fresh, and Pieter's breath came out in small clouds in front of him as he and Anika walked to the museum's entrance.

Af: Anika het met 'n glimlag gesien hoe Pieter kort-kort in sy sakke vroetel en geweet sy vriend is op 'n missie.
En: Anika noticed Pieter frequently fidgeting with his pockets and knew her friend was on a mission.

Af: "Moet nie so bekommerd wees nie, Pieter.
En: "Don't worry so much, Pieter.

Af: Ons gaan die perfekte geskenk vir jou suster kry," het sy gesê en hom vriendelik op die skouer geklop.
En: We're going to find the perfect gift for your sister," she said, giving him a friendly pat on the shoulder.

Af: "Ek hoop so, Anika.
En: "I hope so, Anika.

Af: Sy beteken soveel vir my.
En: She means so much to me.

Af: Ek wil iets besonders vir haar hê," het Pieter geantwoord, 'n sweempie van spanning in sy stem.
En: I want something special for her," Pieter replied, a hint of tension in his voice.

Af: Hulle het die museum binnegegaan, en die warmte het omsluit soos 'n troosvolle kombers.
En: They entered the museum, and the warmth wrapped around them like a comforting blanket.

Af: Binne die geskenkwinkel was dit 'n pragtige blootstelling van helder kleure en interessante kunswerke.
En: Inside the gift shop was a beautiful display of bright colors and interesting artworks.

Af: Daar was spullen van die natuur, gedetailleerde kunswerke, en unieke handgemaakte produkte wat die diversiteit van die Suid-Afrikaanse kultuur uitgestal het.
En: There were nature items, detailed artworks, and unique handmade products showcasing the diversity of South African culture.

Af: Pieter het diep asemgehaal en om hom begin kyk.
En: Pieter took a deep breath and began to look around.

Af: Op daardie oomblik het Johan, 'n entoesiastiese museum-werknemer, vriendelik na hulle gestap.
En: At that moment, Johan, an enthusiastic museum employee, walked towards them warmly.

Af: "Kan ek julle help met iets spesifiek?
En: "Can I help you with something specific?"

Af: " het hy gevra, 'n warm gloed van passie vir sy werk straal uit hom.
En: he asked, a warm glow of passion for his work radiating from him.

Af: "Ek is op soek na 'n unieke geskenk vir my suster.
En: "I'm looking for a unique gift for my sister.

Af: Ek wil hê sy moet weet hoeveel ek haar wardeer," het Pieter aan Johan verduidelik.
En: I want her to know how much I appreciate her," Pieter explained to Johan.

Af: Johan het gegrinnik en die twee na 'n hoek van die winkel gelei.
En: Johan grinned and led the two to a corner of the shop.

Af: Daar het 'n pragtige versameling Afrika-beeldhouwerke gelê.
En: There lay a beautiful collection of African sculptures.

Af: "Hierdie een is spesiaal," het Johan gesê terwyl hy na 'n delikate, goddelike beeld van 'n vrou aangedui het.
En: "This one is special," Johan said, pointing to a delicate, divine sculpture of a woman.

Af: "Dit is gemaak deur 'n plaaslike kunstenaar en stel die krag en skoonheid van die vrou voor.
En: "It's made by a local artist and represents the strength...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Rediscovering the Lost Secrets of Kirstenbosch
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-20-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die reuk van reën hang in die lug bo Kirstenbosch se pragtige bome.
En: The smell of rain hangs in the air above Kirstenbosch's beautiful trees.

Af: Pieter stap stadig oor die smal paadjies, sy oë skerp en op die uitkyk vir die verrassende verskyning.
En: Pieter walks slowly over the narrow paths, his eyes sharp and on the lookout for the surprising appearance.

Af: 'n Plant, lank reeds as uitgesterf beskou, het moontlik een aand hier gespruit.
En: A plant, long considered extinct, possibly sprouted here one night.

Af: Die winterse briesie kielie sy wange terwyl hy nader aan die plek kom waar die skaars plant kamtig gevind is.
En: The winter breeze tickles his cheeks as he comes closer to the spot where the rare plant was supposedly found.

Af: Langs hom loop Annelize, haar hande diep in haar baadjiesakke.
En: Next to him walks Annelize, her hands deep in her jacket pockets.

Af: Sy gluur skepties na die bossies om hulle, haar voete amper geluidloos op die klam grond.
En: She looks skeptically at the bushes around them, her feet almost silent on the damp ground.

Af: Sy was altyd die een wat nie aan toeval geglo het nie.
En: She was always the one who didn't believe in coincidence.

Af: "Ek is nie seker nie, Pieter," sê sy twyfelend.
En: "I'm not sure, Pieter," she says doubtfully.

Af: "Dinge soos hierdie gebeur nie sommer net nie.
En: "Things like this don't just happen."

Af: "Maar Pieter, met sy liefde vir raaisels en plante, is vasbeslote.
En: But Pieter, with his love of mysteries and plants, is determined.

Af: "Ons moet probeer.
En: "We have to try.

Af: As hierdie plant regtig hier is, is dit belangrik.
En: If this plant is really here, it's important.

Af: Ons moet weet hoekom dit skielik verskyn het.
En: We need to know why it suddenly appeared."

Af: "Teen die aand is die lug donker en stil.
En: By evening, the sky is dark and still.

Af: Die sterre flikkering bo hulle koppe.
En: The stars twinkle above their heads.

Af: Pieter en Annelize sluip deur die tuin.
En: Pieter and Annelize sneak through the garden.

Af: Die klanke van die stad ver dof in die agtergrond.
En: The sounds of the city faint in the background.

Af: Hulle stop voor die plek waar die plant gesien was.
En: They stop in front of the spot where the plant was seen.

Af: Pieter skyn sy flitslig oor die grond en opmerk iets glinsterends.
En: Pieter shines his flashlight over the ground and notices something glinting.

Af: Verbaas buk hy af en vind klein stukkies papier en vreemde tekens in die grond.
En: Amazed, he bends down and finds small pieces of paper and strange markings in the ground.

Af: Annelize buk nader.
En: Annelize bends closer.

Af: "Dit is notas!
En: "These are notes!"

Af: " sê sy, verwonderd.
En: she says, amazed.

Af: Voetstappe begin stadig agter hulle nader kom, die gruis vergruisend onder swaar stewels.
En: Footsteps slowly begin to approach behind them, the gravel crunching under heavy boots.

Af: 'n Groot figuur verskyn uit die skaduwees.
En: A large figure emerges from the shadows.

Af: Hulle hou die keer asem op.
En: They hold their breath this time.

Af: Maar dan, tot hulle verbasing, besef hulle dat dit die ou tuinier is, 'n legende in sy eie reg, iemand wat...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Vanished Botanicals: A Youth Day Mystery in Kirstenbosch
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-18-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die koel mist van die winter het oor Kirstenbosch se groen tuine gehang.
En: The cool mist of winter hung over Kirstenbosch's green gardens.

Af: Dit was Jeugdag, en hoewel die weer koud was, was die tuin lewendig met die fluister van wind tussen die blaartjies.
En: It was Youth Day, and although the weather was cold, the garden was alive with the whisper of wind among the leaves.

Af: Pieter stap stadig oor die klam grond.
En: Pieter walked slowly over the damp ground.

Af: Hy soek vrede en inspirasie in die kleure en patrone van die plante om hom.
En: He sought peace and inspiration in the colors and patterns of the plants around him.

Af: Maar vandag is anders.
En: But today was different.

Af: Vandag is daar 'n probleem.
En: Today there was a problem.

Af: “Pieter!” roep Elise, haas opgewonde en benoud.
En: “Pieter!” called Elise, almost excited and anxious.

Af: Sy loop haastig na hom toe, 'n dun laag van koue kondens op haar bril.
En: She hurried towards him, a thin layer of cold condensation on her glasses.

Af: “Daar is 'n plant weg. 'n Baie seldsame een!”
En: “A plant is missing. A very rare one!”

Af: Daai skrikbarende nuus stuur 'n yslike rilling oor Pieter se rug.
En: That alarming news sent a huge shiver down Pieter's spine.

Af: Die plant was belangrik, die een ding wat dalk sy werk meer aansien kon gee.
En: The plant was important, the one thing that might give his work more recognition.

Af: Hy het nie veel tyd voor sy volgende vergadering nie, waar hy verslag moes gee oor sy navorsing.
En: He didn't have much time before his next meeting, where he had to report on his research.

Af: “Hulle sê dit is êrens in die tuin,” sê Elise, haar stem drup van kommer.
En: “They say it is somewhere in the garden,” Elise said, her voice dripping with concern.

Af: “Maar ons weet nie waar nie.”
En: “But we don’t know where.”

Af: Pieter kyk na haar, vasbeslote en met 'n nuwe energie.
En: Pieter looked at her, determined and with new energy.

Af: “Kom ons soek met Johan se hulp.
En: “Let's search with Johan's help.

Af: Hy ken die tuin beter as enigiemand anders.”
En: He knows the garden better than anyone else.”

Af: Johan, die sekuriteitswag, was altyd 'n betroubare bondgenoot wanneer dinge in die tuin verlore raak.
En: Johan, the security guard, was always a reliable ally when things went missing in the garden.

Af: Sy kennis van die plaaslike grond en die plante was onverbeterlik.
En: His knowledge of the local terrain and the plants was impeccable.

Af: Hulle drie het deur die wasige tuin gestap, die koue wat in hul klere kruip.
En: The three of them walked through the misty garden, the cold creeping into their clothes.

Af: Stilbly was nie 'n opsie vir soeken nie.
En: Silence was not an option for searching.

Af: "Waar kan dit heen gaan?" mompel Johan.
En: "Where could it have gone?" muttered Johan.

Af: Hy kyk al in die verdagte rigtings, sy oë al jare lank opgelei vir die kleinste veranderinge.
En: He looked in the suspicious directions, his eyes trained for years to notice the smallest changes.

Af: “Elke pad,” sê Pieter, “elke hoek om, ons moet versigtig wees.”
En: “Every path,” Pieter said, “every corner around, we must be careful.”

Af: 'N uur se soek later, wanneer hoop amper...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: The Market Day Mystery: A Pocket Watch's Journey
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-17-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die markdag in Pretoria het begin met die gesellige geluide van 'n bruisende skare.
En: The market day in Pretoria began with the lively sounds of a bustling crowd.

Af: Onder die winterson het mure van vars produkte en handgemaakte juwele kleurvol teen die koue geblink.
En: Under the winter sun, walls of fresh produce and handmade jewelry gleamed colorfully against the cold.

Af: Stefan staan by sy groentekraam en gluur oor die menigte.
En: Stefan stands at his vegetable stall, gazing over the crowd.

Af: Hy dra die gewig van 'n familietradisie op sy skouers.
En: He bears the weight of a family tradition on his shoulders.

Af: Sy gesin se heirloom, 'n ou sakhorlosie, moet bewaar word.
En: His family's heirloom, an old pocket watch, must be preserved.

Af: Annelie en Kobus dwaal tussen die kraampies rond.
En: Annelie and Kobus wander between the stalls.

Af: Annelie, vol avontuur, dra 'n helder serp om haar nek.
En: Annelie, full of adventure, wears a bright scarf around her neck.

Af: Kobus, altyd skepties, het 'n nuuskierige blik.
En: Kobus, always skeptical, has a curious look.

Af: Vandag was ‘n spesiale dag — Jeugdag in Suid-Afrika — en die mark was vol energie.
En: Today was a special day — Youth Day in South Africa — and the market was full of energy.

Af: Tussen die gewoel, ontdek Stefan dat die sakhorlosie weg is.
En: Amidst the hustle, Stefan discovers that the pocket watch is gone.

Af: “Dit kan nie wees nie!” sê hy.
En: “It cannot be!” he says.

Af: 'n Storm van emosies slaan oor hom.
En: A storm of emotions sweeps over him.

Af: “Dit is my eer op die spel.”
En: “My honor is at stake.”

Af: Annelie en Kobus spring dadelik in aksie.
En: Annelie and Kobus spring into action immediately.

Af: Hulle vlerk deur die mark, op soek na leidrade.
En: They flit through the market, searching for clues.

Af: “Kom ons vra Tannie Mabel by haar konfytkraam,” stel Annelie voor.
En: “Let's ask Tannie Mabel at her jam stall,” suggests Annelie.

Af: Mabel is ‘n betroubare vendor, maar die horlosie is nêrens te vinde nie.
En: Mabel is a reliable vendor, but the watch is nowhere to be found.

Af: Stefan staan by sy kraam, sy voorkop geplooid van bekommernis.
En: Stefan stands at his stall, his forehead creased with worry.

Af: Sal hy die jongmense se instink volg, of sy eie ervaring vertrou?
En: Should he follow the instincts of the young ones, or trust his own experience?

Af: Hy kies eers sy eie pad en nader ‘n betroubare handelaar, Oom Jan.
En: He first chooses his own path and approaches a trustworthy trader, Oom Jan.

Af: “Ek het niks gesien nie,” sê Oom Jan eerlik.
En: “I've seen nothing,” says Oom Jan honestly.

Af: Maar Stefan se agterdog groei.
En: But Stefan's suspicion grows.

Af: Intussen bring Annelie en Kobus nuwe inligting.
En: Meanwhile, Annelie and Kobus bring new information.

Af: “Ons het gehoor daar is iemand wat oorhaastig weggegaan het,” sê Kobus.
En: “We heard there was someone who left in a hurry,” says Kobus.

Af: Hulle oortuig Stefan om saam terug na die mark se hart te gaan.
En: They convince Stefan to return with them to the heart of the market.

Af: Op die hoogtepunt van die dag konfronteer Stefan die persoonlike familieverdink.
En: At the climax of the day,...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Journey to Clarity: Embracing Adventure Beyond the Rock Coast
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-16-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die wintersee bruis raserig teen die klipperige kuslyn van Kaapstad.
En: The winter sea roars noisily against the rocky coastline of Kaapstad.

Af: Johan, Marlé en Ruan stap langs die promenade.
En: Johan, Marlé, and Ruan walk along the promenade.

Af: Die koue lug byt aan hul neuse, maar hul gemoed is warm.
En: The cold air nips at their noses, but their spirits are warm.

Af: Johan kyk na die horison.
En: Johan looks at the horizon.

Af: Sy kop is vol vrae oor sy toekoms.
En: His mind is full of questions about his future.

Af: Marlé stap stadig langs hom, haar gedagtes diep.
En: Marlé walks slowly beside him, her thoughts deep.

Af: Sy is sy anker, altyd kalm en rasioneel.
En: She is his anchor, always calm and rational.

Af: Agter hulle werk Ruan se kamera onverpoos.
En: Behind them, Ruan's camera works tirelessly.

Af: Elke klik is 'n poging om 'n oomblik vir ewig vas te vang.
En: Every click is an attempt to capture a moment forever.

Af: "Ek dink ons moet 'n padtrip neem," sê Johan skielik.
En: "I think we should take a road trip," Johan says suddenly.

Af: "Ek wil uit hierdie sleur breek.
En: "I want to break out of this rut."

Af: "Marlé kyk fronsend na hom.
En: Marlé looks at him with a frown.

Af: "Is jy seker?
En: "Are you sure?

Af: Dis winter en die pad kan gevaarlik wees.
En: It's winter, and the road can be dangerous."

Af: ""Ek moet net wegkom," antwoord Johan haastig.
En: "I just need to get away," Johan answers hastily.

Af: "Ek moet lig vind in al hierdie donkerte.
En: "I need to find light in all this darkness."

Af: "Ruan glimlag en knik.
En: Ruan smiles and nods.

Af: "Kom ons doen dit.
En: "Let's do it.

Af: Ek het alreeds 'n lys plekke wat ek wil afneem.
En: I've already got a list of places I want to photograph."

Af: "En so begin hul spontane avontuur, op Jeugdag, op soek na nuwe perspektiewe.
En: And so their spontaneous adventure begins, on Jeugdag, in search of new perspectives.

Af: Die pad kronkel langs die kus, berge aan die een kant en eindelose oseaan aan die ander.
En: The road winds along the coast, mountains on one side and endless ocean on the other.

Af: Johan se kop is vol gedagtes.
En: Johan's mind is full of thoughts.

Af: Twyfel trek swaar aan sy hart.
En: Doubt weighs heavily on his heart.

Af: Wat wil hy nou eintlik met sy lewe doen?
En: What does he really want to do with his life?

Af: Hy voel vasgekeer, soos 'n skip vas tussen rotse.
En: He feels trapped, like a ship caught between rocks.

Af: Die son begin sak terwyl hulle die promenade in stil skaduwees betree.
En: The sun begins to set as they enter the promenade in quiet shadows.

Af: Ruan het stil geword, besig om die lig vas te vang.
En: Ruan has become silent, busy capturing the light.

Af: Wanneer die laaste strale die water verlig, stop Johan en kyk in stilte.
En: When the last rays illuminate the water, Johan stops and looks in silence.

Af: Marlé neem sy hand.
En: Marlé takes his hand.

Af: Geen woorde is nodig nie.
En: No words are needed.

Af: Die oseaan se krag en die lug se kalmte inspireer hom.
En: The ocean's power and the sky's calm inspire him.

Af: Skielik is...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Nature's Triumph: A Bloom Amidst the Storm
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-15-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Mieke kyk op na die donker wolke wat oor die lug trek.
En: Mieke looks up at the dark clouds drifting across the sky.

Af: Die reënkappe drup stadig op haar, maar sy gee nie om nie.
En: The raindrops drip slowly on her, but she doesn't mind.

Af: Vandag is die dag waarvoor sy gewag het.
En: Today is the day she has been waiting for.

Af: Die seldsame plant by Kirstenbosch gaan blom na baie jare.
En: The rare plant at Kirstenbosch is going to bloom after many years.

Af: "Kom Riaan, ons moet vinnig wees," sê sy, haar stem vol opwinding.
En: "Come Riaan, we need to be quick," she says, her voice full of excitement.

Af: "Ek is reg agter jou, sussie," lag Riaan en stap vinnig agterna.
En: "I'm right behind you, sis," laughs Riaan and walks quickly after her.

Af: Hulle beweeg oor die nat, glibberige voetpad van die tuin.
En: They move across the wet, slippery footpath of the garden.

Af: Die digte mis maak dit moeilik om te sien, maar Mieke ken elke draai.
En: The dense mist makes it difficult to see, but Mieke knows every turn.

Af: Vandag moet alles perfek wees.
En: Today, everything must be perfect.

Af: In die verte sien sy Elsa, haar kollega, wat reeds besig is met notasie.
En: In the distance, she sees Elsa, her colleague, who is already busy taking notes.

Af: Elsa is net so vasberade as sy.
En: Elsa is just as determined as she is.

Af: Mieke se hart klop vinniger, maar sy hou haar kop hoog.
En: Mieke's heart beats faster, but she holds her head high.

Af: Vandag gaan sy die geskiedenis maak.
En: Today, she is going to make history.

Af: "Elsa, oggend," groet Mieke.
En: "Elsa, morning," greets Mieke.

Af: Elsa glimlag terug, al is daar 'n spoor van uitdaging in haar oë.
En: Elsa smiles back, though there is a hint of challenge in her eyes.

Af: "Dit gaan lekker rowwe weer wees," waarsku Elsa terwyl sy na die donker wolke wys.
En: "It's going to be some rough weather," warns Elsa as she points to the dark clouds.

Af: "Ek weet, maar ons kan dit nie mis nie," antwoord Mieke.
En: "I know, but we can't miss it," answers Mieke.

Af: Sy voel 'n sweem van onsekerheid.
En: She feels a tinge of uncertainty.

Af: Sal sy saamwerk met Elsa, of moet sy haar eie koers inslaan?
En: Should she collaborate with Elsa, or should she chart her own course?

Af: 'n Wind begin opsteek en koue rillings trek oor Mieke se vel.
En: A wind begins to rise, and cold shivers run across Mieke's skin.

Af: Haar besluit is geneem.
En: Her decision is made.

Af: Sy moet voortgaan.
En: She must continue.

Af: Die storm loei harder en donderweer breek deur die lug terwyl sy dieper die tuine in verdwyn, met Riaan op haar hakke.
En: The storm howls louder, and thunder breaks through the sky as she disappears deeper into the gardens, with Riaan on her heels.

Af: Skielik gly sy op 'n klipperige pad en voel hoe die aarde onder haar begin beweeg.
En: Suddenly, she slips on a rocky path and feels the earth begin to move beneath her.

Af: Die reën was maar net 'n voorsmakie.
En: The rain was just a preview.

Af: 'n Grondverskuiwing bedreig om haar te oorweldig.
En: A landslide threatens to overwhelm her.

Af: "Riaan!
En: "Riaan!

Af: Pasop!
En: Watch out!"

Af: " skree sy, maar dit...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Chasing Shadows: A Tale of Conservation in Karoo
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-14-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Op 'n helder Juniemôre, terwyl die wyn vanaf die Cederberge oor die Karoo landskap waai, het Pieter en Mariska gereed gemaak vir 'n lang dag in die veld.
En: On a clear June morning, while the wind from the Cederberge swept over the Karoo landscape, Pieter and Mariska prepared for a long day in the field.

Af: Die Karoo Nasionale Park lê wyd en wyd voor hulle, met sy eindelose vlaktes en majestieuse heuwels.
En: The Karoo National Park lay wide and vast before them, with its endless plains and majestic hills.

Af: Die karige winter seisoen het die veld grys en stil gemaak, met min tekens van die lewenskragtigheid wat gewoonlik die streek kenmerk.
En: The sparse winter season had made the field gray and quiet, with few signs of the vibrancy that usually characterizes the region.

Af: Pieter, 'n toegewyde veldwetenskapper, was vasbeslote om data in te samel oor 'n skaars dierespesie wat in die park gevind is.
En: Pieter, a dedicated field scientist, was determined to gather data on a rare animal species found in the park.

Af: Sy passie vir die bewaring van die streek se natuurlike skoonheid het hom dikwels op avontuurlike weë geneem.
En: His passion for preserving the region's natural beauty often led him on adventurous paths.

Af: Saam met hom was Mariska, 'n talentvolle fotograaf, met 'n groot droom om twee van haar passies te kombineer — fotografie en bewaring.
En: With him was Mariska, a talented photographer, with a big dream to combine two of her passions — photography and conservation.

Af: Alhoewel die weerstoestande nie vriende gemaak het met die duo nie, het hulle ononderbroke hul pad gevolg.
En: Although the weather conditions were not friendly to the duo, they persevered.

Af: Die wind het 'n ysige koue om hulle gegooi terwyl hulle die veld ingestap het.
En: The wind cast an icy chill around them as they stepped into the field.

Af: Met elke stap het hulle die hoop en vastberadenheid gedra om 'n verskil te maak.
En: With each step, they carried the hope and determination to make a difference.

Af: "Vandag is Jeugdag," het Pieter gesê.
En: "Today is Youth Day," Pieter said.

Af: "Wat is 'n beter manier om die toekoms te verseker as om dit te beywer vir die wêreld wat dié jeug gaan erf?
En: "What better way to ensure the future than to fight for the world that this youth will inherit?"

Af: "Die diere het hulself weggekruip vir die koue, en elke uur het die hoop op 'n suksesvolle dag net meer vlammend gedoof.
En: The animals had hidden themselves away from the cold, and with every passing hour, the hope for a successful day slowly dwindled.

Af: Ten spyte van al die uitdaging, het Mariska besluit om nuwe tegnieke te probeer — bewegingsensors en langbeligting kameras.
En: Despite all the challenges, Mariska decided to try new techniques — motion sensors and long-exposure cameras.

Af: As gevolg van hierdie innovasie het sy gehoop om die wegkruipende diere op kamera vas te vang.
En: With these innovations, she hoped to capture the hidden animals on camera.

Af: Teen skemer, onder 'n helder sterbebestapte hemel, het Pieter voorgestel dat hulle 'n laaste poging maak, hierdie keer in die donker.
En: By dusk, under a brightly starlit sky, Pieter suggested they make one last attempt, this time in the dark.

Af: Die konsep was riskant, maar die belonings was potensieel groot.
En: The concept was risky, but the rewards were...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Harmony in the Cold: A Winter's Tale of Courage & Song
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-13-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die klanke van winter het oor die gronde van die losieskool neergedaal.
En: The sounds of winter descended upon the grounds of the boarding school.

Af: Buite, het die koue wind liggies aan die boomtakke geskud, maar binne die opgewekte waas van die ouditorium was daar 'n vog van opgewondenheid.
En: Outside, the cold wind lightly shook the tree branches, but inside the spirited haze of the auditorium, there was a moisture of excitement.

Af: Vandag sou Pieter en Annelize hul eie vrese in die oë kyk.
En: Today, Pieter and Annelize would face their own fears.

Af: Pieter was 'n stil en bietjie teruggetrokke seun.
En: Pieter was a quiet and somewhat withdrawn boy.

Af: Hy het altyd sy kitaar by hom gehad.
En: He always had his guitar with him.

Af: Dit was sy veilige hawe.
En: It was his safe haven.

Af: Annelize, aan die ander kant, was vol lewenslus en energie.
En: Annelize, on the other hand, was full of life and energy.

Af: Sy het die verhoog liefgehad, maar as dit by sing gekom het, het sy allerhande koue rillings gekry.
En: She loved the stage, but when it came to singing, she got all sorts of cold shivers.

Af: Dit was Jeugdag, en die studente het besluit om 'n talentkompetisie te hou.
En: It was Youth Day, and the students had decided to hold a talent competition.

Af: Baniere met vrolike kleure het die verhoog beklee, en die atmosfeer was warm en intiem soos die kamers versamel het in die koue seisoen.
En: Banners with cheerful colors adorned the stage, and the atmosphere was warm and intimate as the rooms gathered in the cold season.

Af: Onder die skool se lojale wapens was die alledaagse geselsies vervang met fluisteringe oor watter talent vandag sou skitter.
En: Under the school's loyal arms, everyday chatter was replaced with whispers about which talent would shine today.

Af: Pieter het 'n plan beraam.
En: Pieter had devised a plan.

Af: Hy het besluit om sy kitaarvaardighede te wys, maar nie alleen nie.
En: He had decided to show off his guitar skills, but not alone.

Af: Hy het vir Annelize genader saam met 'n idee wat hul senuwees kon sus: 'n duet.
En: He approached Annelize with an idea that could ease their nerves: a duet.

Af: Hy sou speel en sy sou sing.
En: He would play, and she would sing.

Af: Sy stem en haar dapperheid sou hand aan hand gaan.
En: His voice and her bravery would go hand in hand.

Af: In die dae wat gevolg het, het die twee geoefen in stiltetyd, soms giggelend wanneer Annelize probeer het om haar vrees met grappies te verdryf.
En: In the days that followed, the two practiced during quiet time, sometimes giggling when Annelize tried to dispel her fear with jokes.

Af: Pieter het stil geglimlag, sy vingers omtrent 'n tweede natuur op die snare.
En: Pieter quietly smiled, his fingers almost a second nature on the strings.

Af: Toe die groot oomblik aanbreek, was die ouditorium oorvol.
En: When the big moment arrived, the auditorium was packed.

Af: Olaf het stil geraak toe Pieter en Annelize die verhoog betree het.
En: The audience fell silent as Pieter and Annelize took to the stage.

Af: Vir 'n oomblik het Pieter sy vingers amper laat glip, terwyl Annelize se stem in haar keel vassteek.
En: For a moment, Pieter almost let his fingers slip, while Annelize's voice caught in her throat.

Af:...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Unveiling Secrets: Anika's Journey in Cederbergberge
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-12-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: In die middel van die Cederbergberge lê 'n klein dorpie met groot geheime.
En: In the middle of the Cederbergberge mountains lies a small town with big secrets.

Af: Die koue winterwind waai deur die klowe en fluister verhale van ouds.
En: The cold winter wind blows through the gorges and whispers tales of old.

Af: Anika, 'n jong vrou uit die stad, het na hierdie plek gekom om haar ouma te besoek.
En: Anika, a young woman from the city, has come to this place to visit her grandmother.

Af: Sy voel 'n diep verlange om meer oor haar herkoms te leer.
En: She feels a deep longing to learn more about her heritage.

Af: Een aand, terwyl Anika deur haar ouma se ou koffers snuffel, vind sy 'n antieke kaart versteek in 'n familie-erfstuk.
En: One evening, while Anika is rummaging through her grandmother's old chests, she finds an ancient map hidden in a family heirloom.

Af: Die kaart lyk oud en geheimenisvol, met merkwaardige tekens wat 'n geheime plek in die dorpie aandui.
En: The map looks old and mysterious, with remarkable symbols indicating a secret place in the town.

Af: Haar hart klop vinnig van opwinding, en sy besluit om die geheim te ontrafel.
En: Her heart races with excitement, and she decides to unravel the mystery.

Af: Anika het gehoor van Breyten, die plaaslike historikus.
En: Anika has heard of Breyten, the local historian.

Af: Hy is bekend vir sy kennis van die berg se legendes.
En: He is known for his knowledge of the mountain's legends.

Af: Sy gaan na sy huis toe, 'n klein kliphuisie aan die rand van die dorpie, om sy hulp te vra.
En: She goes to his house, a small stone house on the edge of the town, to ask for his help.

Af: Breyten is aanvanklik huiwerig.
En: Breyten is initially hesitant.

Af: Die dorpsmense het altyd geglo dat die ou geheime gesluit moet bly om probleme te vermy.
En: The townspeople have always believed that the old secrets should remain closed to avoid issues.

Af: Maar iets in Anika se oë sê vir hom dat sy die waarheid verdien.
En: But something in Anika's eyes tells him that she deserves the truth.

Af: Hy besluit om haar te help.
En: He decides to help her.

Af: "Hierdie kaart is oud," sê Breyten, "dit wys 'n pad na 'n plek wat ons al amper vergeet het.
En: "This map is old," says Breyten, "it shows a path to a place we've almost forgotten."

Af: " Saam bestudeer hulle die leidrade op die kaart.
En: Together they study the clues on the map.

Af: Hulle volg sy kronkelende lyne deur die berge.
En: They follow its winding lines through the mountains.

Af: Uiteindelik staan hulle voor 'n donker opening in 'n kranswand—'n verborge grot.
En: Eventually, they stand before a dark opening in a cliff face—a hidden cave.

Af: Die binnekant is stil en heilig, en die mure is bedek met rotstekeninge.
En: The inside is quiet and sacred, and the walls are covered with rock paintings.

Af: In die lig van 'n flikkerende fakkel sien hulle geskiedkundige artefakte, wat lank verlore geraakte verhale van die dorpie vertel.
En: In the light of a flickering torch, they see historical artifacts that tell long-lost stories of the town.

Af: Met hierdie ontdekking help Anika om die gemeenskap te werf om hierdie artefakte te bewaar.
En: With this discovery, Anika helps rally the community to preserve these artifacts.

Af:...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: From Shyness to Collaboration: A Garden Adventure
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-11-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: In die middel van die winter, toe die bome kaal staan en 'n koue wind deur die Stellenbosch Botaniese Tuine waai, het Pieter diep asemgehaal.
En: In the middle of winter, when the trees stand bare and a cold wind blows through the Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens, Pieter took a deep breath.

Af: Hy was nog altyd gemaklik tussen die blomme en struike, maar vandag was anders.
En: He had always felt at ease among the flowers and shrubs, but today was different.

Af: Sy vriend Frans het hom oorreed om 'n tuinmaakwerkswinkel by te woon.
En: His friend Frans had persuaded him to attend a gardening workshop.

Af: Frans, altyd vol entoesiasme, het gemeen dat Pieter iemand met dieselfde liefde vir inheemse plante kon ontmoet.
En: Frans, always full of enthusiasm, thought that Pieter might meet someone with the same love for indigenous plants.

Af: Annelie het vroeg opgedaag, met haar kamera veilig onder haar arm, die koue oggendlug wasjimmerend op haar vel.
En: Annelie arrived early, with her camera safely under her arm, the cold morning air tingling on her skin.

Af: Sy wou elke hoekie van die tuin ondersoek, op soek na daardie perfekte skote vir haar fotoreeks.
En: She wanted to explore every nook of the garden, searching for those perfect shots for her photo series.

Af: Toe die werkswinkel begin, het Pieter opgemerk hoe Annelie besonder oplettend was.
En: When the workshop began, Pieter noticed how particularly attentive Annelie was.

Af: Hy het teësinnig gevoel hoe sy skugterheid hom terughou om met haar te praat.
En: He reluctantly felt how his shyness held him back from talking to her.

Af: Tog, met Frans se aanmoediging, het hy uiteindelik besluit om nader te stap.
En: Yet, with Frans' encouragement, he finally decided to step closer.

Af: "Ek is Pieter," het hy sag gesê.
En: "I'm Pieter," he said softly.

Af: Annelie het opgekyk en vriendelik geglimlag.
En: Annelie looked up and smiled kindly.

Af: "Ek is Annelie," het sy geantwoord, nuuskierig oor sy passie vir die plante.
En: "I'm Annelie," she replied, curious about his passion for the plants.

Af: Pieter het aangebied om haar deur die tuin te lei en te wys waar die mooiste inheemse spesies versteek is.
En: Pieter offered to guide her through the garden and show her where the most beautiful indigenous species were hidden.

Af: Terwyl hulle stasieer by die proteas en die ericas, het Pieter stadigaan sy vrese oorkom.
En: As they lingered by the proteas and the ericas, Pieter gradually overcame his fears.

Af: Annelie se belangstelling in elke blom en blaar het hom meer selfversekerd laat voel.
En: Annelie's interest in every flower and leaf made him feel more confident.

Af: Hul gemaklike geselskap is egter onderbreek deur 'n onverwags reënbui.
En: However, their easy conversation was interrupted by an unexpected rain shower.

Af: Hulle moes skaars skuiling soek onder 'n groot ou eikeboom.
En: They had to quickly seek shelter under a large old oak tree.

Af: In die beskutting van die boom, toe die reën stadig oor die blare drup, het hulle dieper gesprekke gedeel.
En: In the shelter of the tree, as the rain slowly dripped over the leaves, they shared deeper conversations.

Af: Annelie het van haar fotoreeks vertel – sy wou die unieke skoonheid van Suid-Afrikaanse plante in 'n galery-uitstalling vertoon.
En: Annelie spoke of her...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Serendipity in Kaapstad: A Tale of New Beginnings
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-10-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die winterlug in Kaapstad was skerp, maar helder.
En: The winter air in Kaapstad was crisp but clear.

Af: In die Kompanjiestuin was die geure van varsgebakte brood en soutkaramel-met-kaneel soet in die lug.
En: In the Kompanjiestuin, the scents of freshly baked bread and salted caramel with cinnamon were sweet in the air.

Af: Marelize het rustig tussen die stalletjies van die mark gestap.
En: Marelize walked calmly between the stalls of the market.

Af: Sy was op soek na nuwe inspirasie, iets wat haar uit haar skryfblok kon ruk.
En: She was searching for new inspiration, something to shake her out of her writer's block.

Af: Terwyl sy 'n draai by 'n kosstalletjie maak, stamp sy onverwags teen Jacques vas.
En: As she turned around at a food stall, she unexpectedly bumped into Jacques.

Af: "Verskoon my," sê sy vinnig, 'n tikkie verleë.
En: "Excuse me," she said quickly, a bit embarrassed.

Af: Jacques se glimlag was warm.
En: Jacques's smile was warm.

Af: "Geen probleem nie," antwoord hy met 'n vonkel in sy oë.
En: "No problem," he replied with a sparkle in his eyes.

Af: Hy hou 'n kamera in sy hand, en Marelize voel nuuskierigheid opvlam.
En: He held a camera in his hand, and Marelize felt curiosity flare up.

Af: Hulle begin praat, eers oor fyners in die tuin, dan oor fotografie en skryf.
En: They began to talk, first about the fynbos in the garden, then about photography and writing.

Af: Jacques was avontuurlustig, vol van idees vir sy volgende projek.
En: Jacques was adventurous, full of ideas for his next project.

Af: Dit was soos 'n vars briesie vir Marelize.
En: It was like a fresh breeze for Marelize.

Af: "Ek is altyd op soek na nuwe stories," sê sy, en sy voel hoe sy 'n bietjie oopmaak.
En: "I am always looking for new stories," she said, feeling herself open up a little.

Af: Jacques knik, die gasvrye glimlag steeds op sy gesig.
En: Jacques nodded, the hospitable smile still on his face.

Af: "Hoe gaan dit nou met 'n koffie?
En: "How about a coffee?"

Af: " stel hy voor.
En: he suggested.

Af: "Ek dink ons het dalk baie in gemeen.
En: "I think we might have a lot in common."

Af: "Marelize huiwer 'n oomblik, dink aan vorige teleurstellings, maar daar was iets aan Jacques se vriendelikheid wat haar gerusstel.
En: Marelize hesitated for a moment, thinking of past disappointments, but there was something about Jacques's friendliness that reassured her.

Af: "Goeie idee," antwoord sy, en voel 'n klein vonkie van opwinding.
En: "Good idea," she replied, feeling a small spark of excitement.

Af: Hulle stap saam tussen die ou eikebome deur.
En: They walked together among the old oak trees.

Af: Die klanke van die mark was soos 'n simfonie om hulle.
En: The sounds of the market were like a symphony around them.

Af: Terwyl hulle praat, voel Marelize hoe haar skryfmoeë muse wakker word.
En: As they talked, Marelize felt her weary muse awaken.

Af: Onder 'n groot eikeboom, met die knorrige bas soos ’n ou vriend teen haar rug, deel Jacques sy avonture in verre plekke.
En: Under a large oak tree, with the gnarly bark like an old friend against her back, Jacques shared his adventures in distant places.

Af: Marelize het skielik gelag, 'n ware lag wat lanklaas uit haar gekom het.
En: Marelize suddenly...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: A Heartbeat Away: Love and Nature on the Safari
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-09-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die wind waai koel oor Addo Olifant Nasionale Park, die lug vol van die aroma van vars aarde en gebliefde plantlewe.
En: The wind blows cool over Addo Olifant Nasionale Park, the air full of the aroma of fresh earth and blessed plant life.

Af: Annelie staan stil, haar kamera gereed, haar oë gefokus op die uitgestrekte veld.
En: Annelie stands still, her camera ready, her eyes focused on the vast field.

Af: Sy soek daardie perfekte oomblik, daardie skoot wat elkeen in die kunsgeleentheid stom sou laat.
En: She searches for that perfect moment, that shot that would leave everyone at the art event speechless.

Af: Haar hart klop vinnig, nie net van die opwinding nie, maar ook van die spanning oor die uitstalling wat oor 'n week sou plaasvind.
En: Her heart beats quickly, not only from excitement but also from the anticipation of the exhibition that would take place in a week.

Af: Riaan, 'n ervare veldwagter, stap nader.
En: Riaan, an experienced ranger, approaches.

Af: Hy het al lankal 'n sagte plek in sy hart vir Annelie.
En: He has long had a soft spot in his heart for Annelie.

Af: "Dis 'n pragtige dag vir fotografie, nie waar nie?" vra hy met 'n glimlag, sy stem warm en rustig.
En: "It's a beautiful day for photography, isn't it?" he asks with a smile, his voice warm and calm.

Af: Annelie kyk vlugtig na Riaan, sy hele teenwoordigheid is gerusstellend.
En: Annelie glances at Riaan, his whole presence reassuring.

Af: "Ek hoop net ek kry vandag iets besonders," antwoord sy, terwyl sy die landskap in gee om perfekte beelde vas te vang.
En: "I just hope I capture something special today," she answers, as she takes in the landscape to capture perfect images.

Af: Skielik begin Annelie se oë jeuk en haar gesig raak rooi.
En: Suddenly, Annelie's eyes begin to itch, and her face turns red.

Af: Sy hoes en sukkel om asem te haal.
En: She coughs and struggles to breathe.

Af: "Riaan..." fluister sy benoud, die kamera in haar hand skud.
En: "Riaan..." she whispers anxiously, the camera shaking in her hand.

Af: Riaan se oë verruim in skrik.
En: Riaan's eyes widen in fright.

Af: Hy kyk vinnig rond, besef hulle is te ver van enige direkte mediese hulp.
En: He quickly looks around, realizing they are too far from any direct medical help.

Af: Sy hart klop vinnig soos hy die besluit neem om hulp in te roep.
En: His heart races as he decides to call for assistance.

Af: Maar die gedagte skeer vlugtig deur sy verstand: Is daar iets wat hy self kan doen om haar onmiddellik te help?
En: But a thought swiftly crosses his mind: Is there something he can do himself to help her immediately?

Af: Met vaste hand lei hy haar na 'n skaduryke plek onder 'n groot koorsboom.
En: With a steady hand, he leads her to a shady spot under a large fever tree.

Af: "Annelie, bly rustig," sê hy, en gryp sy radio om die noodspan te kontak.
En: "Annelie, stay calm," he says and grabs his radio to contact the emergency team.

Af: Die radiosender kraak lewendig, en Riaan gee vinnig die besonderhede deur.
En: The radio crackles to life, and Riaan quickly gives the details.

Af: "Ek moes meer voorbereid wees," murmureer Annelie met 'n swak stem.
En: "I should have been more prepared," Annelie murmurs weakly.

Af: Haar asem is kort en vinnig terwyl sy haar poging gee om kalm te bly te midde van...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Climbing Life's Mountain: A Journey of Family and Self-Discovery
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-08-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die vars oggendmis het stadig oor Tafelberg se plat top gerol, terwyl Annelie, Pieter en Karien hul stapskoene aangehad het en gereed was vir die uitdagende tog.
En: The fresh morning mist slowly rolled over the flat top of Tafelberg, while Annelie, Pieter, and Karien had their hiking boots on and were ready for the challenging hike.

Af: Annelie het onlangs gegradueer en haar gedagtes was bewolk met vrae oor die toekoms.
En: Annelie had recently graduated, and her thoughts were clouded with questions about the future.

Af: Die idee van 'n gesinshike om hierdie mylpaal te vier, het die meeste vir Pieter beteken.
En: The idea of a family hike to celebrate this milestone meant the most to Pieter.

Af: Hy wou vir Annelie wys dat sy, ongeag haar onsekerhede, nie alleen is nie.
En: He wanted to show Annelie that regardless of her uncertainties, she was not alone.

Af: "Kom ons begin, die pad is lank," sê Pieter met 'n bietjie twinkel in sy oog, terwyl Karien al voor hulle uitspring soos 'n jong bokkie vol entoesiasme.
En: "Let's start, the path is long," said Pieter with a little twinkle in his eye, while Karien leapt ahead of them like a young gazelle full of enthusiasm.

Af: "Na bo gaan ons!
En: "To the top we go!"

Af: " roep Karien, haar stem vol energie.
En: shouted Karien, her voice full of energy.

Af: Elkeen se asem was wit in die koue winterlug.
En: Each breath was visible in the cold winter air.

Af: Terwyl hulle bergop stap, het Pieter probeer om met Annelie te praat.
En: As they hiked uphill, Pieter tried to talk to Annelie.

Af: "Jy weet, dit is goed om nie alles nou al te weet nie.
En: "You know, it's okay not to know everything now.

Af: Die lewe gee antwoorde met tyd," sê hy, maar Annelie voel net meer onderdruk deur sy advies.
En: Life provides answers with time," he said, but Annelie just felt more overwhelmed by his advice.

Af: Sy het die afgelope paar maande net oor die toekoms gedink en Pieter se pogings het soos 'n verdere las gevoel.
En: She had been thinking only about the future for the past few months, and Pieter's efforts felt like an additional burden.

Af: Karien het hulle gelei, klaarblyklik nie oorweldig deur enigiets behalwe die volgende stap nie.
En: Karien led them, apparently not overwhelmed by anything but the next step.

Af: Sy het altyd 'n positiewe uitkyk gehou, iets wat Annelie dikwels bewonder het, maar nou net irriterend gevind het.
En: She always maintained a positive outlook, something Annelie often admired but now just found irritating.

Af: Hulle het voortgegaan, stap vir stap, die vars lug 'n weldaad vir die siel.
En: They continued on, step by step, with the fresh air being a balm for the soul.

Af: Toe hulle uiteindelik die top bereik, het die uitsig oor Kaapstad en die oseaan wye horisonne van moontlikhede laat sien.
En: When they finally reached the top, the view over Kaapstad and the ocean revealed wide horizons of possibilities.

Af: Dit is op hierdie oomblik, met die wind saggies waaiend, dat Annelie haar gedagtes nie meer kan bedwing nie.
En: It was in this moment, with the wind gently blowing, that Annelie could no longer contain her thoughts.

Af: "Ek weet nie wat ek wil doen nie," breek sy stil.
En: "I don't know what I want to do," she quietly confessed.

Af: "Ek is bang ek gaan almal teleurstel.
En: "I'm...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Ruins to Redemption: Trust in Post-Apocalyptic Johannesburg
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-07-22-34-01-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die oorblyfsels van Johannesburg lê onheilspellend stil onder 'n grys winterlug.
En: The remnants of Johannesburg lie ominously still under a gray winter sky.

Af: Die wind suis deur die gebreekte vensters van wat eens luukse geboue was.
En: The wind whistles through the broken windows of what were once luxurious buildings.

Af: Elmarie stap stadig oor die verlate en rommelbedekte strate.
En: Elmarie walks slowly over the deserted and debris-covered streets.

Af: Sy trek haar jas stywer toe die ysige koue oor haar gly.
En: She pulls her coat tighter as the icy cold sweeps over her.

Af: Sy soek stadig na kos en water tussen die ruïnes.
En: She slowly searches for food and water among the ruins.

Af: Haar oorlewing het haar vaardig gemaak.
En: Her survival has made her skilled.

Af: Sy moes wees.
En: She had to be.

Af: Haar gedagtes dwaal soms terug na die dae toe Johannesburg vol lewe was, toe die strate vol mense en motors was, en die lug helder oor die stad geskyn het.
En: Her thoughts sometimes drift back to the days when Johannesburg was full of life, when the streets were filled with people and cars, and the sky shone brightly over the city.

Af: Maar daardie dae is verby.
En: But those days are gone.

Af: Terwyl sy oor 'n hoop klippe klim, vang haar oog 'n skaduwee wat vinnig oor die straat beweeg.
En: As she climbs over a pile of stones, her eye catches a shadow that quickly moves across the street.

Af: Sy vries en hou haar asem op.
En: She freezes and holds her breath.

Af: Uiteindelik sien sy hom – 'n man, effens skelm, die tipe wat jy nie sommer vetrou nie.
En: Finally, she sees him—a man, slightly shady, the type you don't easily trust.

Af: Hendrik.
En: Hendrik.

Af: Hy staan 'n entjie verder en snuffel deur 'n verlate winkel.
En: He stands a little way off, rummaging through an abandoned shop.

Af: Elmarie blaas haar warm asem in haar hande en skuif nader.
En: Elmarie blows her warm breath into her hands and moves closer.

Af: "Soek jy ook kos?
En: "Are you also looking for food?"

Af: " vra sy skielik.
En: she asks suddenly.

Af: Hendrik kyk op, effens sku, maar gee 'n kort knik.
En: Hendrik looks up, slightly shy, but gives a short nod.

Af: "Ja, dis skaars.
En: "Yes, it's scarce.

Af: Die winter sal nie maklik wees nie.
En: The winter will not be easy."

Af: "Daar heers 'n gespanne stilte tussen hulle.
En: There is a tense silence between them.

Af: Albei weet dat elkeen vir homself moet sorg in hierdie verwoeste wêreld.
En: Both know that each has to fend for themselves in this devastated world.

Af: Maar daar is 'n behoefte aan vertroue, aan aansluiting, aan oorlewing.
En: But there is a need for trust, for connection, for survival.

Af: "Ons kan dalk ons hulpbronne saam sit," stel Hendrik voor, hoewel sy stem steeds afstandlik is.
En: "Perhaps we can pool our resources," Hendrik suggests, though his voice remains distant.

Af: Elmarie huiwer.
En: Elmarie hesitates.

Af: Vertroue is gevaarlik.
En: Trust is dangerous.

Af: Maar tog, iets in Hendrik se oë laat haar dink dat hy opreg is.
En: Yet, something in Hendrik's eyes makes her think he is sincere.

Af: Terwyl hulle oorleef moet, voel sy die noodsaaklikheid om die kans...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Winter Warmth: Resilience at Bloubergstrand Cafe
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-06-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die see brul daar buite, 'n magneet vir die gedagtes van diegene wat aan die rand van die Bloubergstrand staan.
En: The sea roars out there, a magnet for the thoughts of those standing on the edge of Bloubergstrand.

Af: Hier, omring deur die wilde winterwind en die kragtige golwe, lê Annelie se kafee, 'n toevlugsoord met groot vensters wat die tumultueuse see vasvang.
En: Here, surrounded by the wild winter wind and the powerful waves, lies Annelie's cafe, a refuge with large windows that capture the tumultuous sea.

Af: Alhoewel die strand gewoonlik vol lewenslustige somerklanke weerklink, is dit nou stil in die koue seisoen.
En: Although the beach usually resonates with lively summer sounds, it is now quiet in the cold season.

Af: Annelie staan agter die toonbank, haar hart klop met 'n mengsel van spanning en hoop.
En: Annelie stands behind the counter, her heart pounding with a mixture of tension and hope.

Af: Sy stroom haar hare agter haar ore in 'n poging om kalmte te beding onder die druk van die komende weke.
En: She sweeps her hair behind her ears in an attempt to bargain for calm amidst the pressure of the coming weeks.

Af: Sy is vasbeslote om die kafee te laat floreer, selfs in hierdie stadige winter.
En: She is determined to make the cafe flourish, even in this slow winter.

Af: Haar gedagtes speel oor die spesiale Jeugdag-geleentheid wat sy beplan het in 'n poging om die gemeenskap nader te bring.
En: Her thoughts play over the special Jeugdag event she has planned in an effort to bring the community closer.

Af: Johan, haar toegewyde sjef, is aan die werk in die kombuis.
En: Johan, her dedicated chef, is at work in the kitchen.

Af: Sy passie vir volhoubare praktyke het hom gedryf om die spyskaart heeltemal te herontwerp met plaaslike produkte.
En: His passion for sustainable practices has driven him to completely redesign the menu with local products.

Af: Maar dit is 'n uitdaging, die koste is hoog, en die finansiële wolke oor die kafee hang swaar.
En: But it's a challenge, the costs are high, and the financial clouds hover heavily over the cafe.

Af: Tog glimlag hy effens terwyl hy 'n vars lewering plaaslike groente aflewer, voel die potensiaal van verandering.
En: Yet he smiles slightly as he delivers a fresh batch of local vegetables, feeling the potential for change.

Af: Aan 'n tafel in die hoek, werk Pieter, 'n kollegestudent met 'n heimlike droom om 'n skrywer te word. Hy is besig om glase te poleer, sy gedagtes op stories wat hy nog moet skryf.
En: At a table in the corner, Pieter, a college student with a secret dream to become a writer, is polishing glasses, his thoughts on stories he has yet to write.

Af: Die werk hier is oor en oor dieselfde, maar sy liefde vir woorde brand helder binne-in hom.
En: The work here is repetitive, but his love for words burns brightly within him.

Af: Op 'n dag, dink hy, sal sy stories soos die branders in hom kom aanstorm.
En: One day, he thinks, his stories will rush through him like the waves.

Af: Die kafee se toekoms lyk grys soos die winterlig buite.
En: The cafe’s future looks as gray as the winter light outside.

Af: Annelie besluit om die Jeugdag-viering groot te maak.
En: Annelie decides to make the Jeugdag celebration big.

Af: Johan stel meer volhoubare praktyke voor, en Pieter kom met die idee van storievertel-aande as 'n manier om meer...

Fluent Fiction - Afrikaans: Lost in the Mist: A Tale of Trust and Triumph
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/af/episode/2025-06-05-22-34-02-af

Story Transcript:

Af: Die mis lê dik oor Tafelberg soos 'n sagte kombers.
En: The mist lies thick over Tafelberg like a soft blanket.

Af: Jaco en Elmarie se asem stoot wit walmpies in die koue winterlug.
En: Jaco and Elmarie's breath pushes out white puffs in the cold winter air.

Af: Die klam vog klou vas aan hul gesigte terwyl hulle die winderige, rotsagtige paadjies navigeer.
En: The dampness clings to their faces as they navigate the windy, rocky paths.

Af: Jaco, met sy lang bene en selfversekerde stap, draai om na Elmarie.
En: Jaco, with his long legs and confident stride, turns to Elmarie.

Af: "Ons moet vinnig die piek bereik, Elmarie.
En: "We need to reach the peak quickly, Elmarie.

Af: Ek voel ons is naby," sê hy, sy stem vol opwinding.
En: I feel we're close," he says, his voice full of excitement.

Af: Elmarie skud haar kop en kyk bekommerd rond.
En: Elmarie shakes her head and looks around worriedly.

Af: "Jaco, die mis is gevaarlik.
En: "Jaco, the mist is dangerous.

Af: Ons kan maklik verdwaal.
En: We can easily get lost.

Af: Ons moet versigtig wees," antwoord sy met haar normale bedeesdheid.
En: We must be careful," she replies with her usual caution.

Af: Jaco lag en begin 'n kortpad neem deur die klippe.
En: Jaco laughs and begins to take a shortcut through the rocks.

Af: "Vertrou my, dit is nie so erg nie!
En: "Trust me, it's not that bad!"

Af: " roep hy.
En: he calls.

Af: Maar Elmarie staan stil, haar gesonde verstand neem oor.
En: But Elmarie stands still, her common sense taking over.

Af: "Ons moet terugkeer," dring sy aan.
En: "We need to go back," she insists.

Af: Die spanning bou soos die mis al digter om hulle vou.
En: The tension builds as the mist wraps around them more tightly.

Af: Hulle stemme raak sagter in die digte stilheid.
En: Their voices become quieter in the dense silence.

Af: Skielik hoor hulle stemme in die verte.
En: Suddenly, they hear voices in the distance.

Af: 'n Groep andere stap versigtig hul kant toe.
En: A group of others cautiously makes their way towards them.

Af: Jaco en Elmarie kyk vir 'n oomblik na mekaar, vasgevang tussen wanhoop en hoop.
En: Jaco and Elmarie exchange a look, caught between despair and hope.

Af: "Miskien kan hulle ons help," fluister Elmarie.
En: "Maybe they can help us," Elmarie whispers.

Af: Jaco, met 'n skielike gevoel van benoudheid, stem in.
En: Jaco, with a sudden feeling of anxiety, agrees.

Af: "Hallo!
En: "Hello!

Af: Ons het hulp nodig!
En: We need help!"

Af: " roep hy oor die klowe van onheilspellende stilte.
En: he calls over the ominous silence of the cliffs.

Af: Die groep, ervare bergkenners, glip stadig maar seker na hulle kant toe en begin met leiding voorsien.
En: The group, experienced mountain guides, slowly but surely approach and begin providing direction.

Af: Die vrieskoue wind waai om hulle, maar Jaco en Elmarie voel 'n warm blos van verligting.
En: The freezing wind blows around them, but Jaco and Elmarie feel a warm flush of relief.

Af: Onder die kundige leiding van die ander, vind hulle hul pad veilig terug na die beginpunt van die roete.
En: Under the expert guidance of the others, they find their way safely back to the starting point of the route.
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