What makes literature interesting is that it does not survive its translation. The characters in a novel are made out of the sentences. That’s what their substance is.
Jonathan Miller
The translator must make choices based on context and intent, striving for accuracy while acknowledging the inherent subjectivity involved. These choices shape the portrayal of characters and the overall tone of the novel, making translations a unique reading experience. Despite the challenges, exploring translated literature allows us to bridge language barriers and gain a broader understanding of different cultures, fostering empathy and acceptance.
Table of Contents
- 1 What makes literature interesting is that it does not survive its translation. The characters in a novel are made out of the sentences. That’s what their substance is.
- 2 Jonathan Miller
- 3 Meaning of Quote – What makes literature interesting is that it does not survive its translation. The characters in a novel are made out of the sentences. That’s what their substance is.
- 4 Freely Shareable Quote Image
- 5 Related
Meaning of Quote – What makes literature interesting is that it does not survive its translation. The characters in a novel are made out of the sentences. That’s what their substance is.
Have you ever wondered why literature captures our imaginations and transports us to different worlds? Well, according to Jonathan Miller, it’s because literature cannot survive without translation. In other words, when we read a novel, we are not just reading words on a page; we are diving into the lives of the characters who are brought to life by the sentences they inhabit.
Literature has the remarkable ability to create these characters out of thin air. They exist solely within the boundaries of the sentences that form their being. Every word, every sentence, every paragraph adds another layer of depth to their existence. They have thoughts, emotions, and dreams, and as readers, we become invested in their narratives, hoping for their triumphs and sympathizing with their struggles.
When a novel is translated, these characters undergo a transformation, just like words being translated from one language to another. The essence of their being, their hopes, their fears, all remain intact, but now they are given a new voice in a different language. This process may seem daunting, but it is also incredibly fascinating because it allows us to see literature from different cultural perspectives.
Imagine reading a novel originally written in French, and then reading its English translation. Both versions may tell the same story, but the way the characters are portrayed can vary significantly. The nuances and subtleties of the original language might be lost or altered in translation, but the essence of the characters remains.
For example, let’s consider the character of Emma Bovary from Gustave Flaubert’s classic novel “Madame Bovary.” In the original French version, Emma is described as “ennuyeuse” which translates to “boring” in English. However, the English translation might use a different word, such as “mundane” or “tedious,” to convey the same meaning.
In this way, the character takes on a slightly different persona depending on how they are described in the translation. These subtle differences in choice of words can shape our perception and understanding of the character, making the reading experience unique for each translation.
Moreover, not only do translations affect the portrayal of characters, they also have the power to change the entire tone of a novel. The rhythm and cadence of the language in the original work may not match the same flow in the translated version. The translator must find a way to capture the essence and style of the author’s writing while adapting it to a different linguistic context.
This process requires a deep understanding of both languages, as well as a sensitivity to cultural nuances. The translator must walk a fine line between remaining faithful to the original text and ensuring that the translated work is accessible and engaging to the new audience.
While some argue that reading translated literature is not the same as reading the original, others see it as an opportunity to explore different cultural perspectives. Translations allow us to broaden our understanding of the world by exposing us to stories that might otherwise remain inaccessible.
Through translation, we gain the ability to step into the shoes of characters from different countries, eras, and walks of life. We can witness their struggles, immerse ourselves in their cultures, and develop empathy for lives that may differ greatly from our own. In this way, literature not only transcends language barriers but also bridges the gap between cultures, fostering understanding and acceptance.
However, it is important to note that translation is not without its challenges. Words and phrases often do not have exact equivalents in different languages, leading to inevitable compromises. The translator must make choices based on context and intent, and while they strive for accuracy, there is always an inherent degree of subjectivity involved.
Furthermore, translations are influenced by the translator’s own cultural background and interpretations. This introduces an additional layer of complexity, as the reader may be experiencing the character through the lens of the translator’s worldview.
Nonetheless, these challenges should not deter us from exploring translated works of literature. The act of translation itself is an art form, and through the dedication and skill of translators, the essence of a novel can be faithfully captured, preserving the magic that makes literature so captivating.
In conclusion, Jonathan Miller’s quote highlights the fascinating nature of literature and translation. The characters in a novel are brought to life by the sentences they inhabit, and when a novel is translated, these characters undergo a transformation while still maintaining their essence. Translations offer us the opportunity to explore different cultural perspectives and bridge the gap between languages, fostering empathy and understanding. So, the next time you pick up a translated work, remember that the characters within its pages have traveled far and wide, engaging readers across the globe and reminding us of the universal power of storytelling.
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