Blog: Do Translated Books Retain Their Impact Compared to the Original Language?
I am a reader who enjoys books in both English and my regional languages. Yet, I often find myself feeling uncomfortable with translated books, such as those translated from Tamil to English. This unease prompts me to reflect on why this might be the case and what happens to a book's impact when it is translated.
In this blog, I’ll share my thoughts on the impact of translated books compared to their original language versions.
The Choice of Words:
One key issue is the choice of words. Translation isn’t just about replacing words from one language with another; it’s about capturing the original meaning, tone, and nuances. Sometimes, the translator’s word choices can change the subtlety and depth of the original text. Words or phrases that are powerful in Tamil might lose their impact or become less effective in English, which can affect how readers experience the story.
Preserving the Emotions:
Another challenge is keeping the emotions in the text. Emotions are often linked to cultural and language details. A heartfelt expression in Tamil might not always translate well into English, which can affect how readers feel about the story. The way a character's feelings or the mood of a scene come across might change in translation, which can lessen the emotional impact.
The Fruitfulness of the Story:
Despite these challenges, translated books can still be fruitful and enlightening. They provide access to diverse narratives and perspectives that would otherwise remain out of reach. While some of the original’s nuances may be lost, skilled translators strive to retain the core essence of the story. This effort allows readers to explore and appreciate literature from different cultures, broadening their understanding and enjoyment of global stories.
In conclusion, translated books might not always capture every detail and feeling from the original text, but they still provide valuable insights and connections. Although some details and emotions may be lost, these books help us understand and enjoy stories from different cultures, broadening our reading experience.
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As someone who can only read in English, for me, translated works are a boon. I get to explore so many cultures through words. But I can understand your hesitation as well. Some regional words just don't translate well.
ReplyDeleteI'm not much into books but I understand what you are trying to say here. I do have books in marathi at home and if they are translated I feel that regional feel or essence won't be the same in other languages. Although translated books are a boon for us in a way as they help us understand other parts of the world.
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