Navigating the Linguistic and Cultural Depths of Literary Translation

Abstract

Translation is a complex phenomenon that requires specialized skills to accurately render a text from the source language into the target language.

There exist literary and technical/scientific translations which differ from each other significantly in terms of purpose, style, language use and approach.  The main goal of the technical/scientific translation is to convey precise ad accurate information about specialized topics regarding medicine, technology, engineering, etc. Consequently, during the technical/scientific translation, the main focus is on functionality rather than style or creativity. While during the literary translation the principal purpose is to convey the artistic, cultural and emotional nuances of the original text to the reader.

That is why especially literary translation is both an art and a science, requiring not only linguistic proficiency but also a deep understanding of cultural nuances and literary traditions. The translation of literary texts is particularly complex, as it involves the intricate task of conveying not just the words, but also the emotional depth, cultural context, and stylistic elements that shape the original work.

This article examines the translation process of Playing with Fire by Otia Ioseliani, with a particular emphasis on the strategies and techniques used to render this Georgian literary work into English. Through an analysis of the translation choices made, we explore how these decisions have influenced the reception of the text in its new linguistic and cultural context. In addressing the specific challenges and solutions encountered throughout the translation process, this study aims to shed light on the complexities involved in translating linguistic units—such as phrases, words, and entire sentences—while accounting for cultural and ethnic nuances. Additionally, this article highlights the broader implications for translation studies, contributing to a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationship between language, culture, and literature, with a focus on how our decisions shape the final product.