From Text to Text - Ulisses Infante

From Text to Text: A Journey Through Literary Translation

In his book "From Text to Text," Ulisses Infante takes readers on a fascinating journey through the world of literary translation. With a wealth of experience as a translator himself, Infante offers a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of this complex and often misunderstood art form.

The Challenges of Literary Translation

Infante begins by exploring some of the inherent challenges of literary translation. He argues that translation is not simply a matter of converting words from one language to another, but rather a process of recreating a work of art in a new linguistic and cultural context. This requires the translator to not only have a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, but also the ability to capture the nuances and subtleties of the original text.

The Rewards of Literary Translation

Despite the challenges, Infante also highlights the many rewards of literary translation. He argues that translation is a vital means of cultural exchange, allowing readers to experience works of literature from around the world. It is also a form of creative expression in its own right, allowing translators to put their own stamp on a work of art and make it their own.

The Art of Literary Translation

Infante then delves into the specific techniques and strategies of literary translation. He discusses the importance of understanding the author's intent, as well as the need to strike a balance between fidelity to the original text and the demands of the target language. He also explores the role of the translator's own creativity and imagination in the translation process.

Case Studies in Literary Translation

To illustrate the challenges and rewards of literary translation, Infante provides a number of case studies from his own experience. He discusses the challenges of translating works by authors such as Jorge Luis Borges, Gabriel García Márquez, and Mario Vargas Llosa, and how he approached the task of recreating their works in English.

The Future of Literary Translation

In the final chapter of the book, Infante looks to the future of literary translation. He argues that translation will continue to play a vital role in the global exchange of ideas and cultures, and that the demand for skilled translators will only grow in the years to come.

Conclusion

"From Text to Text" is a must-read for anyone interested in the art and craft of literary translation. Ulisses Infante's insights and experiences provide a unique perspective on this complex and fascinating field, and his passion for translation is infectious. This book is a valuable resource for translators, writers, and anyone else who is interested in the power of literature to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries.