Why Literary Translation is Important
Translation is the process of conversion from one language to another. We all know that. But translations of some content require a different approach. One such content type is literary translation. Literary subject matter experts and literary translation services carry out these translations.
Literary translation is basically the translation of creative prose into other languages. It includes the translation of literature related to modern fiction so that it can reach a wider audience. In most cases, ancient languages are translated.
While it is true that the translation of creative content is different from the other translations, literary translation is tricky. The main aim of literary translation is the communication of poetic function. As every literary work has some artistic image embedded in it, translation of this work may be difficult.
A literary translation should consider the special features of the text. This is because when a reader reads a story or a poem translated from a foreign language, he perceives the text along with its meaning, characters, and emotions. It is a challenge to achieve that particular image for the reader. Therefore, literary translation might involve some different rules than other types of translations.
Literary translator are constantly seeking to choose which elements of the text to preserve as well as which to let go of. Here are some reasons why literary translation is so important and why you should opt for it.
The Importance of Literary Translation
It promotes shared values
Translation of literary text takes a closer look at the literature and ideas from different countries. A large amount of literature has been written on human rights issues, environmental phenomena, and elements of common humanity. Translation of these texts helps to promote shared values among the people of different communities. So whether it’s Anna Politkovskaya ’s Putin’s Russia or Antoine de Saint’s Petit Prince, the translation would make these works available in multiple languages.
It is important to have access to the stories and experiences beyond the borders of one’s own country. This is the reason why the translation of the literary text is of such importance.
It enriches and revitalizes language
The translation of literary work and text can benefit as well as enrich the language it is translated into. This helps to bring new terms and ideas with it. The target language is promoted as each translation of a text is the renewing of language and imagery.
Translation makes us experience different cultures and norms through literature. By reading the translation of the literary text, we get a chance to view the view-points of other languages.
It revitalizes literary sources
Translation of literary text allows it to travel across nations and boundaries. It renews the literary impact of ancient literature, giving it meaning and regeneration. An example is The Fortunes of The Reader by Bernhard Schlink which was transformed after its translation from German to English. A ilm adaptation of the work was carried out as more readers began to read it. Not surprisingly, it was a huge success.
Translation allows literature to travel across borders and time. For example, the translation of literary work from age-old Latin to English has led many readers to take a look at the ancient way of life.
It regenerates literature
Translation of books into many languages allows regeneration and revitalization of literature. This is because having more translated books encourage readers to experiment with their own literature. An example is Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie, where he explores the borders between English and Hindi.
In doing so, he draws attention to the absorption of one language into another. This is the reason why it is important to continue experimenting with cultural and linguistic and cultural boundaries. Translation of literary text regenerates and revitalizes unexplored literature.
It allows the best reading experience
The art world is huge and diverse. Whenever we want to enjoy “the best”, we choose the art form we prefer. For example, we visit world-renowned music festivals to appreciate diversity in UK music. However, with literature, spotting ‘the best’ may be tough.
A proper infrastructure needs to be in place to ensure quality books are read. Nevertheless, translation allows us to read the best literature from across the globe.
It provides a valuable teaching tool
The translation is more than just a conversion of one language to another. With literary work, however, translation can generate a deeper understanding of the complexities of language. It improves written and spoken communication skills, leading to valuable teaching experience.
The benefits of learning new languages are evident, both through translation projects and scientific research. Translation enhances language learning and exploration. Certain initiatives such as Translation Nation show that translation leads to enhanced language learning.
This leads to young people gaining confidence as well as critical thinking. As translation opens doors for experimenting with new languages, it ultimately results in readers getting more engaged in language learning.
It develops new readers and writers
One interesting aspect of literary translation is that it encourages audiences across the globe to read about new subject matters. Moreover, it provides an understanding of different viewpoints from other countries and languages.
The literary festivals that take place internationally attract new readers, fostering the habit of reading. In addition, translation is promoted as these festivals cater to different linguistic groups.
By providing access to literary works through these translations, it gives a chance to the readers to experiment with different languages. Hence, literary translation presents opportunities for the masses to explore their languages as well as compels them to read more. In addition, it also encourages those shy readers to take up reading, making the reading community larger.
It leads to the development of new markets
Translation allows for experimentation with new literary texts. In the world of literature, huge markets are being discovered. Translations of renowned works open the doors for new market exploration. This is because the translation of literary text belonging to ancient and unexplored regions develops an understanding of those regions.
Literal translations develop the previously unexplored markets. This is because people across the globe learn more about unexplored regions and the people residing there. Consequently, translation of the literary text can lead to developing and promoting new markets.
It contributes to economic growth
It is counter-productive to be confined to a single language only. This is why literary translation is vital for establishing an understanding of economic competition and financial decisions. Translation of literature leads to a greater understanding of issues such as literacy. This, in turn, makes economic growth easier to achieve. Moreover, reading of works in translation, be it a Scandinavian novel or an autobiography of an environmental activist, leads to fostering a generation that speaks and understands different languages.
Moreover, having a skill in a second language enables graduates to communicate confidently in global societies. This, ultimately, contributes to economic growth and progress. It makes good leaders and thinkers who improve the economic situation of that region as well as the target region.
The Last Word
Translation of literary work may seem like a tough task, but it is a creative one that is interesting in itself. A translate book or poem may attract readers and enthusiasts of other regions who might have wished to get their hands on the translate versions. However, the translation of literary text should contain certain elements so that they can be read across the globe.
The translation should preserve the original expression of the literature. It might be possible not to be able to convert the whole reading experience, but the essence of a text can be translate into other languages. Moreover, a literary translation expert should have a clear understanding of the cultural nuances of the target market. This will help him in striking a chord with the local reader community.
(from CCJK Blog)