Texts in Translation

Texts in translation enable literature and its readership to transcend cultural barriers. In a world where the significance of diverse social landscapes is more heightened than ever, translated texts serve as a tool to unite individuals from different ethnic backgrounds by inviting readers to gain an intimate understanding of the intricacies of the respective cultural context in which a plot transpires. 

As seen in Mahfouz Naguib's, "The Thief and the Dogs," translated literature can often urge its readers to commiserate with regional social and political tumults as constructed by a primary source based on empirical evidence. Hence, while factual narrations or filmed documentaries may outline an objective and overarching portrayal of certain native tribes or cultural nuances, the insights gleaned from translated literature tend to be much more profound as a reader delves directly into the authentic mindset and intent that the author set out with when writing his piece of prose. Furthermore, it could be said that writing in one's own native language is effective in terms of providing the author with a creative yet cathartic outlet uninterrupted by the pressure of sensible and meaningful translation of dwellings into a language that could appeal to a larger demographic. Accordingly, through indulging in translated literature the reader is granted access to not only the thought processes of a range of cultures, but also to becoming acquainted with the rituals, customs, traditions, and practices of individuals from different communities. Moreover, one of the most instrumental roles of translated literature is to enrich the reader's perception of another cultural group, therefore promoting a sense of international mindedness in the readership.

Whilst light can be shed on the platitude of beneficial facets of translated literature, the same also entails numerous challenges in its production. The most prominent of concerns when considering translated texts lies in the possibility that a translated piece of prose/poetry may not do justice in conveying the authenticity and genuine essence that the author hopes to capture in his writing. This notion is complemented by the fear of allegations of skewing, misrepresenting, or culturally appropriating certain texts if the translator himself does not share the same ethnic, cultural, or religious milieu as the author of the original text. A recent example of such a controversy manifests in the Chinese translation of Indian Tagore's "Stray Birds" by Chinese translator and publisher Feng Tang who has been accused of degrading Tagore's pure intents by ostensibly donning sexualized connotations to select lines in the Chinese version of the poetry collection. This event also highlights the excessive criticism that translated works are vulnerable to, which may in turn result in suppressing a translator's creative expression and interpretation. Lastly, another challenge pertaining specifically to foreign readers is the necessity to have a grasp on the underlying circumstances or contextual details that propel the progression of the plot, in order to facilitate a deeper engagement with the text.