Copeland and roundtable comments

 Copeland

When translating I don't hear a specific person's voice, but I do try to emulate the general style of the type of writing I am translating, based on my knowledge of the genre I've acquired through reading. Although if I were to start developing a consistent work relationship with a certain author as many translators do, I'd probably start hearing their voice as a writer. I definitely relate to Copeland's struggles early in her translation process, being frustrated with "untranslatable" words or phrases, and trying to find the perfect translation of an idea. It was interesting to read about the different styles of book covers of a few different novels, after discussing the importance of them in class last week. Also the point about the ownership and credit given to translators, even seemingly insignificant details like whether the translator's name is put on the cover or the title page are debated in the publishing sphere. I understand Copeland's hesitancy with deletion in translation, but I am of the opinion that if deleting certain parts improves coherency to the new audience, it is not such a terrible thing to do. I wouldn't go as far as to agree with the publisher's that apparently believe that a translated work must read like it was never translated at all, but comprehensibility is above all important.  

McCellan

It was very entertaining to read the back and forth between the translators in this transcription. As they discussed, choosing a work or author that matches your style or level seems to be not a necessary choice, but might be a good practice as a translator. In this interview in general, they speak a lot of the importance of good relationships between the author, translator, editor, and publisher, and I do believe many of them have developed very close bonds with their authors, whether living or passed. It was interesting to hear how they tackle the challenge of dialect, although they don't seem to have grasped a clear answer either, it's really a case by case issue. Overall, many interesting points and a good conclusion to this series as I understand it.  

-Joanne