Yves Gambier, Screen translation and language quality

TL;DR

The content discusses the relationship between oral and written codes in translation and linguistic studies, highlighting the need to move beyond a dichotomy and consider the continuum between the two forms.

Transcript

there is no gentleman except you and me now I would like to talk about the relationship between oral and written codes and I will take some examples of uh audio visual translation as a basic of my talk but I will give you simple remarks and then I will rise a simple problems I will try to do to deal with a simple problems I will ask you at the end ... Read More

Key Insights

• 💁 The dichotomy between oral and written forms of translation is an oversimplification that fails to capture the complexities of different modalities of translation.
• 💁 The orality in written texts can shape the interpretation and translation choices made by translators, highlighting the interplay between oral and written forms.
• 💁 African literature challenges the notion of a strict dichotomy between oral and written forms, integrating both in its storytelling.
• 🧑‍⚖️ Translation for theatrical performances necessitates considerations of speakability, actability, and singability, and should not be judged solely on its similarity to natural conversation.

Questions & Answers

Q: How has the traditional dichotomy between oral and written translation hindered the understanding of different modalities of translation?

The oversimplification of translation as either oral or written has overlooked modalities such as sign language interpreting and audiovisual translation, limiting the understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in these forms of translation.

Q: How does the orality in written texts affect the translation process?

The orality in written texts can have a significant impact on the translation process, as seen in the retranslations of Russian and German authors. The orality can shape the interpretation of the text and influence the translation choices made by the translator.

Q: How does African literature challenge the dichotomy between oral and written forms?

African literature in European languages integrates both oral and written forms, challenging the notion of a strict dichotomy. This has historically led to the devaluation of African literature, as the oral nature of the texts was seen as inferior to more written forms.

Q: What are the challenges and considerations when translating dialogue for theatrical performances?

Translation for theatrical performances requires considering the speakability, actability, and singability of the text. While some may perceive dialogue in theater as artificial, it is important to recognize that it does not aim to replicate daily life and conversation, but rather create a representation that serves the theatrical context.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Translation studies have traditionally categorized translation as either oral or written, but this oversimplification fails to acknowledge the complexities of different modalities of translation such as sign language interpreting and audiovisual translation.

• The idea of orality in written texts is exemplified through the retranslations of certain Russian and German authors, as well as the integration of oral and written forms in African literature in European languages.

• Verbal folklore and theatrical performances also raise questions about the representation of dialogue and the use of idiomaticity and natural language in translation and dubbing.

• The use of net speak, such as SMS language and emoticons, in subtitles and other forms of translation is a challenging issue that raises questions about language variation, generation gaps, and the role and responsibility of translators.