A funny translation mishap

Somebody sent this to me and I thought you might enjoy it (ICYMI).

Discussion Questions for Notes from Interlingual Hell

(from Maoyue Xie)

Discussion Questions for “Notes from Interlingual Hell: The translation of Essays and Journalistic Prose”

1.Riggs stated that the Japanese essays or articles are often loosely organized, etc. whereas the English versions need to be more logical considering its international readership. Do you believe this to be true?
2. Riggs argues that the term transmigration is more adequate than translation, especially when it comes to Japanese-English conversion. As a translator, would you like to transmigrate (make it easier for readers) a piece or to translate (stay close to the original)?
3. Riggs points out that there are two main ways a professional translator approaches the first phase (producing a draft). One is to start out cold and another is to read through to the end at first. As a translator, which approach do you prefer?

Discussion Questions for "On Translating Poetry" and "Through a Glass Darkly"

"On Translating Poetry"

1. Pulver states that extensive research into the original poet is necessary for good poetry translations. Do you believe this to be necessary?

"Through a Glass Darkly"

2. Given the excellent translations of Japanese poetry in the article, do you believe that the argument concerning Japanese's ambiguity/difficulty to translate is valid?

3. Beichman argues that translation is purely a selfish act, and it is not really about building bridges between cultures. What do you think of her statement?

My thoughts:

1. While I think that extensive research can improve the quality of a poetry translation, I think there is a point at which research can hinder the translator. When a person is buried in their research concerning the poem, I think it can over-complicate the task. Rather, reading the poem multiple times, getting a feel for it, drafting a translation, and then researching is probably a better avenue. By understanding the poet after allowing creative flow, the translator can reevaluate their work and adjust as needed.

2. I no longer believe in the argument's validity. The translations from the article were phenomenal, and to me, they showed that I have a lot to learn. My Japanese ability is not where I want it yet, and I think that manifests itself in my anxiety concerning Japanese - English translation. As I improve and continue studying the language, it gradually becomes clearer, and in turn, easier to translate. Poetry is an art of its own, so seeing these translations was inspiring.

3. I don't quite agree with her. It might be because I wish to pursue a career in translation, but I don't like to see my ambitions as selfish. It was because of translators that I developed an interest in Japanese language and culture, and I hope to inspire similar feelings among future generations of English-speakers. While I have a lot to learn, I think that translation is a difficult and mentally taxing profession. It is also known for not having stellar wages. So I would think that there has to be some selflessness involved in doing translations. 

Discussion Questions for "Eight ways to say you"

1.     In the text, the author thinks that English is a linear fashion supported by logical explanations while Japanese is more of a circular fashion. What do you think?

2.     The author mentions that when translating academic works she sometimes reorganize or rewrite the text. Do you think it is appropriate for translators to rewrite or reorganize? Why?

3.     Other than “you” there are multiple ways of saying “me” in Japanese as well. When encountering examples such as 僕, 俺, 私, わたくし, and あたし what will you do if you are the translator? Will you just simply use “me”? Why?

Here are my thoughts:

1.     In my opinion, I do agree that Japanese is subtler/circular than English while constructing sentences. However, I somehow find it disturbing when the author uses “logic” to define the difference between English and Japanese. English novels don't always follow the pattern of “introduction to body to conclusion” and Japanese novels also have logical supports behind them. I think her way of distinguishing the difference between these two languages are too general.

2.     I don’t think it is appropriate for translators to rewrite the text. I simply think it is dangerous for such things to happen. It gives me a feeling that the translator is no longer translating but acting as a co-writer of the book.

3.     It is important to explain the differences between different “me”. Sometimes the different “me” implies a huge difference in the character’s personality. For example, 僕 and 俺 are both “me” used by male. However, 僕 often is used by male characters who are not as strong while 俺 is commonly used by more determined and sometimes violent guys (i.e. gangsters). I will probably put in a footnote to explain rather than letting it go by simply using “me”.

Edward Seidensticker, "On Nagai Kafu and Kawabata Yasunari"

1. How does Seidensticker feel about improving upon works when creating the translation? Does he feel this a beneficial or harmful thing to do?

2. What are some of the difficulties that Seidensticker faced while translated Kawabata's works into English? In what ways was his work a "challenge" to translate?

3. Why does Seidensticker think that Kawabata is a good writer? To clarify, what "style" does he use in his writing and how is this remarkable?

"Orchestrating Translation" Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think it was so important for Japanese literature to be translated into English first (as opposed to other languages)? Why is it believed that English translations are indispensable to "succeed on the international scene"?

2. How do you think the image of Murakami changed in Japan (or did it change?) after his international success?

3. What are the benefits of indirect translation?

Marie IIda in action

Here is a YouTube clip where you can see Marie IIda interpreting. 

Welcome to the blog and Marie Iida

Dear Students,

Welcome to our class blog! I hope you will feel free to write not only comments about assigned readings, but also post about translation-related things you come across.

Happy blogging!

Anna Elliott