Dr. Diah Supatmiwati SS.M.Hum English literature program Universitas Bumigora Translation 2
Introduction to Literary Translation Literary translation is the art of conveying the essence of a literary work from one language to another. It's a complex process that goes beyond simply replacing words with their equivalents.
Types of Text
What is Literary Translation? Literary translation refers to the rendering of originals in which translators are expected to preserve or recreate “the aesthetic intentions or effects that may be perceived in the source text” Literary translation consists of the translation of poetry, plays, literary books, literary texts, as well as songs, rhymes, literary articles, fiction novels, novels, short stories, poems, etc. Literary translators are required to appreciate meaning, but they must also be prepared to solve the linguistic problems imposed by style, tone, phonoaesthetics , dialect, connotation and metaphor, as well as to tackle the quandaries that derive from text resistance, ideology, and personal interpretation. subjectivity may highlight nuances thought to be of significance at a particular period, this may weaken over time, suggesting the need for retranslations to satisfy new audiences.
characteristics of literary translation 1 Preserving the Author's Voice Translators must carefully consider the author's tone, vocabulary, and literary devices to ensure the translation accurately reflects the original work. 2 Cultural Nuances Literary translation often involves navigating cultural references, idioms, and metaphors that may not translate directly, requiring the translator to find creative solutions. 3 Aesthetic Considerations Translators must pay attention to the rhythm, rhyme, and overall flow of the text, ensuring that the translated version is aesthetically pleasing and engaging to the reader. 4 Target Audience Translators must consider the intended audience of the translation and adapt their language accordingly to ensure the work resonates with readers in the target culture.
Preserving the Author's Voice Preserving the author's voice is crucial in literary translation. It means capturing the author's unique style, tone, and personality in the translation. 1 Understanding the Author's Style Translators must carefully analyze the author's vocabulary, sentence structure, and literary devices to understand their unique style. 2 Using Appropriate Language Translators must choose words and phrases that reflect the author's tone and style, while also being appropriate for the target audience. 3 Maintaining the Author's Voice Translators should aim to create a translation that sounds like the author is speaking directly to the reader, even in another language.
Translating idioms and metaphors poses a significant challenge because they often carry cultural and figurative meaning that doesn't translate literally. Original Translation Explanation "Kick the bucket" "Pass away" This idiom signifies death, and while "kick the bucket" is common in English, it might not have the same meaning in other languages. "Spill the beans" "Reveal the secret" This metaphor refers to revealing a secret, but it's important to find a translation that captures the same sense of disclosure. "Break a leg" "Good luck" This idiom is used to wish someone good luck, but it's not literal and needs to be translated appropriately. Translating Idioms and Metaphors
Translating Poetry and Verse Translating poetry and verse presents unique challenges due to the emphasis on rhythm, rhyme, and sound devices. Translators must find ways to preserve these elements while maintaining the meaning and beauty of the original work. Understanding Poetic Devices Translators must be familiar with poetic devices like metaphor, simile, and alliteration to understand how they contribute to the poem's meaning and effect. Finding Equivalents in the Target Language Translators need to find similar poetic devices in the target language to maintain the poem's rhythm, rhyme, and sound effects. Preserving the Meaning and Emotion Translators must ensure that the translation conveys the poem's meaning, emotions, and overall impact, even if the literal words are different.
Ethical considerations are vital in literary translation. Translators must strive for accuracy, faithfulness to the original text, and respect for the author's work. Accuracy Translators should strive for accuracy in their translations, ensuring that the meaning of the original text is conveyed clearly and precisely. Faithfulness Translators should remain faithful to the original text, avoiding any significant changes or additions that alter the author's intended message. Respect for the Author Translators should respect the author's work and strive to capture their unique style and voice in the translation. Ethical Considerations in Literary Translation
The Role of the Translator Literary translators play a crucial role in bridging cultural and linguistic barriers. They make literature accessible to readers around the world. Linguistic Expertise Translators must have a deep understanding of both the source and target languages to accurately convey the nuances of the text. Literary Sensitivity Translators must be sensitive to the literary devices and stylistic choices used by the author to create a faithful and engaging translation. Cultural Understanding Translators must be aware of cultural differences and find ways to bridge them in the translation process. Creative Ability Translators often need to use their creativity to find appropriate equivalents for idioms, metaphors, and other linguistic expressions.
Careers in Literary Translation Literary translation offers a variety of career paths for individuals with language skills, literary knowledge, and a passion for connecting with audiences across cultures. Freelance Translator Freelance translators work independently, taking on translation projects from various clients, including publishers, literary agents, and authors. In-House Translator In-house translators work for organizations that require translation services, such as publishing houses, government agencies, or international companies.
Literary translation presents various challenges, including capturing the nuances of language, preserving the author's style, and addressing cultural differences. Language Barriers Each language has its own unique grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, creating challenges in finding accurate equivalents. Cultural Differences Translators must navigate cultural references, idioms, and metaphors that may not translate directly, requiring them to find creative solutions. Preserving the Author's Voice Translators must carefully consider the author's tone, vocabulary, and literary devices to ensure the translation accurately reflects the original work. Challenges of Literary Translation
Ranjang Bulan Ranjang Pengantin WS Rendra The moon’s bride, the bride’s bed: Ranjang bulan , ranjang pengantin langit biru lazuardi ditumpu tangan-tangan leluhur Anjing tanah menggelepar memekikkan birahi kepayang Ranjang bulan , ranjang pengantin perahu jung seratus layar dipangku lautan tertidur . Gugur bintang satu-satu mengantuk kena berkhayal The moon’s bride, the bride’s bed An azure blue sky Held up by ancient hands A cricket flutters about Shrilling a love song to the net The moon’s bride, the bride’s bed: A Chinese junk with a thousand sails Crossing the sea of sleep Star fall one by one Yawning with sweet vision
ST SEPASANG MERAK DALAM KAIN TENUNMU TT A PAIR OF PEACOCKS IN YOUR WEAVING IRMA AGRYANTI hamba tak kuasa sepanjang hari menangis tidakkah kau merasa iba melihat nestapa ini Di mana taman bagi sepasang merak dalam tenunmu Sepasang itu , seperti Rengganis dan repaumaja Pengantin tanpa pelaminan Kehilangan dekorasi bunga dalam motif keker Pada selembar kain Hanya pohon menaungi Dengan ranting yang seringkih jarimu Untuk menciptakan relief dongeng Cinderamata dari tanah sukarare Mata rabun membawa tangan bisu Merasa selembar kain tak pernah cukup Menterjemahkan nasib baik ataukah nasib buruk bakal menyempurnakan kisah hidup I can't cry all day long, do you not feel a shred of pity seeing this sad scene? Where is the garden in your weaving for a pair of peacocks Rengganis and Repatmaja a bride and a groom without a dais a wedding party missing its Keker flower decoration On that piece of cloth there are only trees with tiny branches as fragile as your fingers fit for a fairy tale straight out of Sukarare Blurry eyes lead to mute hands a piece of cloth is never enough to interpret good or bad luck or complete the story of a life Translated from Sasak by Irma Agryanti and Mikael Johani
conclusion Literary translation theory explores the relationship between translation and literature, emphasizing the creative role of translators and their interaction with texts.