Prose Translation Techniques

Definition of Literary Prose: Understand that literary prose is not defined by the rhythm and measure characteristic of poetry but possesses its own rhythm, which is syntactic and compositional.

Rhythmic Features of Prose: Recognize the importance of descriptions, dialogues, events narration, authorial digressions, paragraph structure, and the balance of verbs, nouns, and adjectives in creating the rhythm of prose.

Types of Prose Rhythm: Identify and differentiate between the various rhythms found in prose, such as epic, lyrical, picaresque, and philosophical, each with its unique characteristics:

Epic: Extensive descriptions, a variety of dialogues, detailed events, and substantial digressions.

Lyrical: Dominance of description and monologues, impressionistic digressions, and sensitive characters.

Picaresque: Vivid and dynamic, with brief dialogues, swift events, and rapid changes of mood.

Philosophical: Longer, complex sentences, specific vocabulary, and exploration of philosophical ideas.

Poetic Prose: Understand the use of metaphors and similes, as seen in Boris Pasternak's "Doctor Zhivago", and the importance of deep diction, imagery, and subtext.

Challenges of Translation: Acknowledge the difficulties in translating different rhythms and the importance of cultural background knowledge. This includes recognizing humor, irony, and cultural symbols that may not translate directly between languages.

Translation Strategy: The approach to translating literary prose should respect the original's rhythm, narrative type, architectonics, and cultural references. Translators should aim to reconstruct these elements in the target language without arbitrary changes.

Cultural and Associative Aspects in Translation: Be aware of the challenges posed by cultural disparities, such as quotations in foreign languages, and the associative meanings of specific words or phrases.

Recommendations for Translators:

Gain comprehensive knowledge of the source text's author and literary tradition.

Conduct a thorough pre-translation analysis of the text, paying attention to semantic, stylistic, and rhythmic elements.

Read the source text multiple times before starting the translation.

Consider the expressive functions of the text's components and seek equivalent vocabulary units that carry similar associative force.

Measure the rhythmic pattern of the text at all levels and compare your translation with the source text's rhythmic and phonic image.

Look for similar texts in the target culture to aid translation efforts.

Translating Jane Austin into Russian

Jane Austen's Background and Literary Influence:

Austen was born to an English clergyman and spent most of her life in a quiet, rural setting.

Her literary career began with parodies and sketches, but she evolved into a brilliant novelist.

Despite her quiet life, Austen had a keen sense of observation and a talent for depicting the subtleties of human nature and social interaction.

Austen’s Artistic Approach:

Austen was not interested in the literary life but focused on her writing.

She was influenced by writers like Defoe, Fielding, Richardson, and Crabbe, but her storytelling was unique.

Her prose is stern, sometimes joyful, and often full of epigrams, but it remains distinct from poetry.

Narrative Style and Irony:

Austen’s narrative style is characterized by its elegance and restraint.

She uses her characters to convey vivid storytelling and commentary, while the narrator remains moderate.

Austen described her own art as a "little bit (two inches wide) of ivory," highlighting her ability to create expansive narratives within a small scope.

Use of Satire and Social Commentary:

Austen’s work often includes satirical elements that criticize societal norms and behaviors.

For example, in "Pride and Prejudice," the contrast between a large fortune and the appeal of military officers to certain characters showcases Austen’s ability to satirize societal values.

This satirical force often arises from the juxtaposition of societal values and individual behaviors.

Contrasts and Rhythmic Patterns:

Austen’s narrative rhythm relies on contrasts, such as between polite behavior standards and characters' actual weaknesses.

Discrepancies between actions and descriptive words sometimes highlight these contrasts, like calling Mrs. Bennet’s complaints "gentle murmurs."

Understanding these rhythmic patterns is key to grasping the deeper meanings in Austen’s work.

Translation Challenges:

Translating Austen into Russian requires preserving the subtleties of her narrative style and the precision of her satirical commentary.

The translator needs to effectively convey the contrast and irony without losing the elegance and restraint of Austen’s prose.

Capturing the "indefinable" quality of Austen’s work, which includes the depth and nuance of her observations, is crucial for a successful translation.

Cultural and Familial Influences:

Austen’s own family background and the experiences of her relatives provide a rich tapestry of characters and scenarios that influenced her novels.

The diverse lives of her brothers and their careers, as well as other family connections, are mirrored in the complexity of her characters and plots.