Do Fiction Translators Ever Read Their Own Translations as Normal Reading?

For many fiction translators, the process of translating a beloved story can be as intense and immersive as the act of reading it for the first time. However, whether a translator reads their own work as a normal reader after the translation is complete largely depends on personal preferences and the translation's impact on them. In this article, we explore the common practices and perspectives of fiction translators, revealing the intricate nature of their relationship with their own translations.

The Rigor of Translation

Translation is a meticulous process that involves more than just converting words from one language to another. It is a deep dive into the world of the author, interpreting nuances, and ensuring that the essence of the original work is preserved. For many translators, especially those with a deep respect for the source material, reading their own translations can be an incredibly interesting experience. The translator not only knows the text inside out but also has a unique perspective on the decisions made during the translation. This can make reading the translation feel somewhat like revisiting an old, but trusted, friend.

Proficiency and Detachment

One of the challenges faced by translators is the balance between achieving proficiency in the translation and maintaining a sense of detachment. Once a translator has spent countless hours working on a text, they become intimately familiar with it. By the time they finish, they might even know the text almost as well as the author. This knowledge can be both a blessing and a curse. It can enhance their understanding and appreciation of the work, but it can also make the text feel familiar and less like an external piece of literature.

According to Sarah Jones, a renowned English translator, the translation process can be as involved as anything she has experienced in her professional career. “At times, I feel as though I am living in the world of the original author, and when I return to my translation, it feels like a bit of a déjà vu. But even with this familiarity, I still find it rewarding to read through the final product,” she shared in an interview.

Schizophrenia and the Inner Conflict

The inner conflict that often arises from a translator's intimate knowledge of their own work is a common experience. Many translators describe a feeling of schizophrenia, where they are the author and the translator simultaneously. This dual role can make it difficult to view their own translations as foreign, which is a crucial aspect of reading them as an objective third party.

“There is a sense of schizophrenia that comes with translating,” explained James Wilson, a prolific fiction translator. “I know the text so well that it almost feels like it’s part of me. Yet, I need to read it as a reader would, detached and aware of my own influence. It’s a delicate balance.”

Reading the Final Product

Despite the challenge, many translators do find satisfaction in reading their final translated work. It can provide insights into their own strengths and weaknesses, help them refine their techniques, and reinforce their passion for the art of translation. Moreover, reading the finished product can offer a unique form of closure for a translator, although this can be an emotional experience. It’s a reminder of the work they have done, the decision-making process, and the collaboration between the original author and the translator.

“Every time I read a translation I’ve done, I am reminded of the long nights, the early mornings, and the hours spent poring over dictionaries. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing that the story now exists in a new language, but also feeling a sense of responsibility for the quality of the final product,” said Maria Rodriguez, a professional Spanish-to-English translator.

Conclusion

The act of a translator reading their own work as a normal reader is a nuanced and often conflicting experience. While some translators find the process enriching and rewarding, others prefer to leave the translation to the scrutiny of expert readers. Regardless of their preferences, translators share a deep understanding and respect for the translated work, which can shape their relationship with it in profound ways.

For those in the field of translation, the true value of reading one’s own translation lies in the insights gained, the improvements made, and the personal fulfillment derived from bringing an author’s vision to a new audience. Whether they read it as a normal reader or not, the process of translation remains a highly personal and emotional journey for many professionals.