| Summary: | This paper investigates language and translation theories as they pertain to
the English translation of modern Japanese literary prose. The four chapters deal,
respectively, with a general discussion of language theory; a discussion of some
important theoretical issues in translation; a case study, consisting of a detailed
discussion of some of the problems and issues encountered in translating a specific
work of Japanese fiction; and, finally, the translation itself.
Chapter I examines some influential language theories, including the concept
of signification, Bakhtin's theory of heteroglossia, and Whorf's theories on how
languages influence our conceptualization of reality. Language is presented as
dynamic, shifting, contextual, and self-referential, expressive and at the same time
creative of who we are and how we see ourselves in relation to the world around
us.
Chapter II examines several translation issues, including translation
metaphorics, the subjectivity of the translator, the nature of fidelity in translation,
translating cultural subtext and supertext, and structural differences between
Japanese and English that affect translation. Translation is an interpretive art: the
translated text acts as a 'meta-text' to the original, with the translator's unique,
subjective interpretation intrinsic to its production. Although translation is driven
by a desire for sameness, difference is the more fundamental aspect, and the
translator's art lies in using these differences to illumine and complement the
original.
Chapter III studies the translation of a specific literary work, "Uji" (Maggot) by
Fujisawa Shu. General structural problems discussed include indeterminacy and
delayed determinacy of meariing, problems of tense/aspect, kanji
overdetermination, and issues relating to cultural subtext and supertext. In
addition, several difficult passages are analyzed to illustrate the interpretive and
creative process of rendering Japanese into fluid English.
Chapter IV is the translation itself, a grotesque but artfully wrought
description of a maggot’s journey over the raped and murdered corpse of a young
woman. The delicacy of its prose combined with the sensitive nature of its content
demand that the translation be carried out with considerable tact, so as not to disturb
the precarious balance between poetry and abomination that the original so
successfully achieves.
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