ANDRE LEFEVER’S CLASSIFICATION R.ANBU CHELVAN 3 rd BA ENGLISH
Andre Lefevere’s classification of translation Phonemic translation: this aims at reproducing the sound of the SL text in the TL text. Literal translation: this aims at word for word translation Metrical translation: this aims at reproducing the matter of the original text in the translation. Rhymed translation: this aims at reproducing the rhyme of the SL text in the TL language text. Prose rendering: this aims at rendering a poem into a prose translation. Blank verse: this aims at translating a rhymed poem by turning it into a blank verse poem. Interpretative translation: this translation does not stop with word for word translation. It aims at the translator interpreting the SL text according to his own light.
PHONEMIC TRANSLATION: Phonemic translation aims to recreate the sounds of the source language (SL) in the target language (TL). Simultaneously, the translator strives to convey the meaning of the original text. By focusing on sound patterns, phonemic translation seeks to capture the poetic essence without sacrificing semantic content. It works best when it translates least—meaning that it is moderately successful when it avoids excessive distortion of the target text. In summary, Andre Lefevere’s phonemic translation emphasizes the delicate balance between sound and meaning, allowing poetry to resonate across linguistic boundaries.
LITERAL TRANSLATION: In this approach, the translator aims to reproduce the source language (SL) text word-for-word into the target language (TL) . Rather than focusing on interpretation or creative adaptation, literal translation prioritizes maintaining the exact linguistic elements of the original poem. It can be seen as an attempt to capture the phonemic aspects of the source text, including its sounds and rhythm.
METRICAL TRANSLATION: Translation in which there is an attempt at metrical reproduction. Like literal translation, concentrating on the metre might result in distortion of sense and the overall qualities of the text as a whole. Poetry into prose: This can capture the sense, but the poetic qualities tend to get lost.
RHYMED TRANSLATION: In rhymed translation, the translator faces the challenge of maintaining both the metrical structure (such as the rhythm and syllable count) and the rhyming pattern of the original poem. To achieve rhyme, the translator may need to change the communicative value of certain words or use ready-made utterances in the target language. However, this can sometimes distort or decrease the communicative impact of the original words . The delicate balance lies in preserving the poetic form while ensuring that the translated text remains meaningful and resonant in the target language. André Lefevere’s approach recognizes that translation involves more than just matching words on the page; it requires understanding the cultural, literary, and ideological considerations that shape the choices made by translators.
PROSE RENDERING TRANSLATION: Lefevere believed that the translator’s task is to make the source text accessible to readers who might not be familiar with its variations. To achieve this, the translator replaces the original author’s variations with their equivalents in a different language, time, place, and tradition . In prose rendering, the focus is on conveying the meaning of the original poem rather than adhering strictly to its poetic form (such as rhyme or meter). The translator aims to create a readable and coherent prose version that captures the essence of the source text while allowing for cultural and linguistic adaptation. Essentially, prose rendering prioritizes clarity and accessibility, making poetry more approachable for a wider audience
BLANK VERSE TRANSLATION: Lefevere’s blank verse translation strategy deals with the use of traditional iambic pentameter or a freer form . The metrical scheme can be either traditional (following established patterns) or self-imposed (created by the translator). It involves a delicate balance between adhering to a scheme and deviating from it , allowing room for both rules and exceptions . In summary, Lefevere’s metrical translation strategy acknowledges the rhythmic and metrical aspects of poetry, while also allowing for creative adaptation within the target language
INTERPRETATIVE TRANSLATION: Lefevere considered translation as a form of rewriting . He likened it to the refraction of light, where the source text acts as a beam of light, and the translator functions as a prism. The translator bends and manipulates the source text, allowing different colors (or interpretations) to emerge . In interpretative translation, the focus is not merely on linguistic fidelity but on reinterpreting the original text within the cultural and ideological context of the target language. The translator engages with the source text, making choices that align with specific ideologies or poetics , resulting in a new version that reflects both the original and the translator’s creative input. Essentially, interpretative translation acknowledges that every act of translation involves interpretation, adaptation, and the negotiation of cultural meanings. It goes beyond literal rendering to capture the spirit and resonance of the original work.