Essay on Translation

Translators cannot help betraying the original text

‘Traduttore traditore’ is an Italian phrase which literally means ‘translator, traitor’. Even though it seems to be a hostile overgeneralization, I believe there is some truth to it. In my opinion, it is impossible for translators to be completely faithful to the original text. What is more, it would also be unwise for them to try to do so.

Translators are necessary because each language is unique. Words are not interchangeable, they can have multiple meanings and there are several other factors that need to be taken into account, such as connotation, register, collocations, among others. In addition, each language has its own style, pace, and rhythm. It is impossible, even for the best, most experienced professional, to achieve the perfect translation. Meaning and style will always be lost, but it is this uniqueness that cannot be translated that makes languages so beautiful and worth learning.

Translators must often make changes on purpose. When confronted with puns, jokes, idioms, sayings or poetry, they need to adapt them so that they can achieve the same effect in the target language. Can this be considered a ‘betrayal’ of the text? In a way it is, but it is also true that, if translators did not take some poetic license when required, some texts would completely lose their appeal.

Lastly, translators too make mistakes. They are human beings who are doing a very difficult job, sometimes against the clock. Being fluent in two or more languages, they become so used to them that they may find it difficult to spot false cognates or calques.  

Some translators feel that, by acknowledging these problems, people are disrespecting their work. I do not believe that is the case at all. Translating can be incredibly challenging and, if done rightly, the product may be outstanding and achieve its desired effect. However, it cannot be denied that a translated text will never be exactly like the original.

In conclusion, I believe translators cannot help betraying the original text. Be it because of the incompatibility of languages, the required adaptations or unintended mistakes, translations can never be perfect. Languages are extremely rich and varied; writing in one language what has been said in another is a very complex activity. Even though the results may never be flawless, translators should keep on doing their best, so that we can continue enjoying texts we would not be able to read otherwise.