Musing on my work:
Why does translation matter? Translation matters because it is an expression and an extension of our humanity, the secret metaphor of all literary communication. At least that’s how it is explained by Edith Grossman in her book titled, Duet for Two Pens. The creation of any literary translation is an original writing. As translators we choose which bird, which flower, and which style of boat, building, or pier from any given text. We want the words to transform into a lasting and meaningful image in the mind of the reader. As we know there are numerous translations of one work. Take for example, War and Peace, The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha, The Divine Comedy: Inferno, The Iliad, or the more recent texts, The Unbearable Lightness of Being and The Time of the Hero. Each translation keeps true to the language of the time in which it was translated. Language evolves. It grows. We, as translators, create with each new work and humanity expands because of us.
Tricia
Spanish Language & Cultural Solutions 
I agree. I’ve read some translations that I recognize as botched or clunky. A good translator is a gem.
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Hi, Joseph,
It is nice of you to comment. People often don’t think about all the research and concerted efforts required for an accurate translation. It feels good to be appreciated. I once spent some days and several conversations with the author of a text before deciding which translation would be appropriate for ONE word of a poem. We had to consider rhythm, rhyme, metre, and most importantly the cultural significance of the word. If, for example a certain species, in this case a bird, doesn’t exist in the second language, a new bird must be chosen so that readers might grasp an image and therefore value the text. There is something new to be learned with each translation. I enjoy revitalizing the written word. Cheers, Tricia
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