Translating the Untranslatable: Negotiating Cultural Differences in Literature
Keywords:
Literary translation, cultural differences, untranslatability, cultural negotiation, equivalence, translator's role, cross-cultural understandingAbstract
The act of translating literature transcends the mere transfer of words between languages. It involves navigating the complexities of cultural differences, bridging the gaps between diverse worldviews, and ultimately striving to convey the essence of a work within a new linguistic context. This article explores the concept of the "untranslatable" in literary translation, highlighting the challenges posed by cultural references, idioms, and nuances that defy direct translation. It then examines how translators negotiate these challenges, employing strategies such as cultural adaptation, explanatory notes, and creative solutions to achieve a level of equivalence and preserve the author's intended meaning. Ultimately, the article argues that through cultural negotiation, translators play a crucial role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and enriching the literary landscape by introducing new voices and perspectives to global audiences.