INTRODUCTION
Statement of research problem and rationale for the study
With hundreds of languages and cultures worldwide, translation serves as a vital tool for bridging cultural divides It is often asserted that translation efforts are essential for uniting diverse communities globally In this context, literary translation holds a unique significance, contributing to the broader mission of fostering understanding and connection among people from various backgrounds.
Literature serves as a vital reflection of culture, embodying the unique characteristics of its origin Recognizing its role as a cultural bridge, numerous studies have focused on literary translation; however, the methods used in this field have not been thoroughly explored As a translation and interpreting student, I aim to apply my knowledge to investigate how Vietnamese professional translators approach the translation of literary works from English to Vietnamese This research will specifically analyze the translation methods utilized in Kenneth Grahame's "The Wind in the Willows."
This study is designed to assist aspiring translators from the Division of Translation and Interpreting at the University of Language and International Studies, Vietnam National University It particularly focuses on novice translators and anyone interested in the field of literary translation.
Aims and research questions
This study seeks to identify the translation methods employed by professional translators in their work on Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows, with a focus on the most frequently used techniques Additionally, the researcher aims to recommend effective translation strategies that can be utilized for translating other literary texts.
In order to achieve those goals, the research aims to answer the following research questions:
1 What are the translation methods applied by each translator in translating the second chapter of Kenneth Grahame„s The Wind in the Willows?
2 What are the most common translation methods used by each translator?
3 Of 2 translation versions by Nguyen Tam and Cam Linh, which one is more successful?
Scope of the study
This study examines the translation methods utilized in the translated versions of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows It critically analyzes key translation approaches, including semantic translation, communicative translation, literal translation, word-for-word translation, faithful translation, adaptive translation, free translation, and idiomatic translation.
All the quotations and examples, comparisons in the study would be extracted from the English and Vietnamese versions of Kenneth Grahame‟s The Wind in the Willows
Methodology
In this part, the methodology of the study will be briefly presented This includes the sampling, data collection method, procedure of data collection and analysis
This study is methodologically conducted by collecting, analyzing and interpreting data on cases of translation methods applied in the translations
The Wind in the Willows is selected for this case study on translation methods due to its widespread accessibility and popularity among readers both domestically and internationally.
To facilitate a thorough analytical comparison, both versions of the translations and the source language story are printed This allows for a detailed examination of the original text alongside the translations A careful and critical reading of all materials will help identify the translation methods employed.
Data analysis is conducted to address three key research questions regarding translation methods Initially, the various translation techniques are compiled and categorized into groups Subsequently, the analysis identifies the most frequently used method by each translator through calculation Finally, a comparison of the translation methods employed by the two translators is performed to evaluate which approach is more effective and successful.
Organization of the study
The structure of the study is as follows:
Chapter 1 - Introduction: Provides an overview of the study with rationale, aims and objectives, significance and organization of the study
Chapter 2 - Literature review: Provides key concepts in translation and linguistics in order to deeply understand the concept of translation and translation methods
Chapter 3 - Methodology: States methods of the study including selection of subjects, research instrument, procedures of data collecting and procedure of data analysis
Chapter 4 - Findings and discussion: Discusses the results of the study and explain how these results are discovered, then explain how they answer the research questions
Chapter 5 - Conclusion: Summarizes discussed points, limitations of the study as well as suggestions for further researches.
Expected outcome
This research is valuable for professionals in the translation field, particularly for those training to become translators, with a focus on literary translation, as well as for researchers engaged in related studies.
This study aims to enhance readers' understanding of academic translation methods, particularly through the application of these techniques in translating Kenneth Grahame's "The Wind in the Willows." By exploring key concepts and practical approaches, the research seeks to deepen readers' comprehension of translation methods, which are essential for literary translation Ultimately, the insights gained from this study are expected to assist readers in mastering both translation theory and practice.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Translation
Linguists and translation theorists have provided diverse perspectives on the definition of translation, yet there is a consensus that it encompasses both a process and a product, often highlighting the concept of equivalence.
Newmark (1995, p.5) introduces a very clear and comprehensive concept of translation, which is “rendering the meaning of a text into another language in the way that the author intended the text.”
Roger Bell (1991, p.5) defines translation as “the expression in another language (or target language) of what has been expressed in another source language, preserving semantic and stylistic equivalences”
Mildred L Larson (1984, p.10) defines translation as the process of transferring meaning from the source language to the receptor language This involves examining the lexicon, grammatical structure, communication context, and cultural background of the original text Translators must analyze these elements to grasp the intended meaning and then reconstruct it using appropriate vocabulary and grammar that align with the cultural context of the target language.
Nida and Taber (1974) assert that translation involves reproducing the closest equivalent of the source language message in the receptor language, prioritizing meaning first and style second.
In summary, translation involves transferring a text from a source language to a target language, focusing on equivalence while also considering cultural and educational nuances that influence the recipients' perceptions (Bernacka, 2012) The translator's role is to convey the meaning of the source language effectively in the target language, necessitating an understanding of language, grammar, culture, and the spiritual aspects of the receptor language.
General translation is the most common type, involving everyday language that doesn't require specialized knowledge, such as letters, emails, and newspaper articles In contrast, professional translation encompasses more complex fields like legal, administrative, commercial, and financial texts Legal translation, for example, necessitates a deep understanding of the differing politic-legal and socio-cultural contexts across countries, making it particularly challenging for those outside the field, as law is a vast and intricate area of expertise.
Translation in specialized fields demands not only strong linguistic skills but also extensive background knowledge Creativity and experimentation in format and terminology are limited, as translators often have access to established terminology and recurring phrases In summary, a meticulous approach is essential for these challenging translation tasks.
7 could be considered to be quite prescriptive and formulaic The same; however, cannot be said for literary translation, which allows the translator to share in the creative process
Literary translation is a vital bridge between cultures, allowing valuable literary works to reach broader audiences and fostering the development of literature itself For example, early French literature was significantly shaped by ancient Greek and Roman texts, often resulting in adaptations or translations In the 18th century, Russian writers drew inspiration from translated works, which became foundational for their literary landscape Similarly, Luytte's German translation of the Bible profoundly influenced the evolution of German literature Cervantes' "Don Quixote," which was quickly translated into English, transformed the trajectory of English literature Additionally, the English translations of García Márquez's novels have notably impacted authors like Toni Morrison and Salman Rushdie Thus, the history of literature is intricately woven through the process of translation and cultural exchange.
Vietnamese literature, particularly in its early stages, has been significantly influenced by translated works, as noted by Thuy Toan (1999) During the early 20th century, new Vietnamese literature was largely shaped by French and Chinese translations, with many writers also serving as translators themselves This trend spanned various literary genres, including memoirs, poetry, and fiction, highlighting the crucial role of translation in the development of Vietnamese literary identity.
During that period, notable translations of Chinese literature included autobiographies and dramas, with distinguished translators such as Phan Ke Binh, Nguyen Do Muc, Nguyen Huu Tien, and Nguyen Chanh Sac contributing to the field Their significant works encompass classics like "The Romance of the Three Kingdoms" by Luo Guanzhong, "Journey to the West" by Wu Cheng'en, and "Water Margin" by Shi Nai'an.
Prominent translators of French literature, such as Nguyen Van Vinh and Pham Quynh, have made significant contributions with their translations of notable works, including La Fontaine's Fables, Victor Hugo's Les Misérables (Les Contemplations), and Alexandre Dumas' The Three Musketeers.
Literary translation is a complex and sophisticated task that goes beyond merely converting words from one language to another; it requires conveying the author's original intent and expression Translators must possess a deep appreciation for the various styles, tones, and nuances in both the source and target languages to effectively recreate the mood of the original text This involves not only addressing the inherent challenges of translation but also considering the aesthetic qualities of the work, including its beauty and style, as well as its unique linguistic features Therefore, a successful literary translator must blend language proficiency with artistic sensibility, ensuring that both the lexical meaning and the author's literary style are faithfully represented.
Translation equivalence
Equivalence is a fundamental concept in translation studies, serving as the connection between a source text and its target text It signifies that one text is a translation of another, and without this crucial link, the translation process cannot achieve success.
To achieve translation equivalence, various theories have been proposed Nida (1969) emphasizes function-based equivalence, distinguishing between dynamic and formal equivalence In contrast, Baker (1992) focuses on form-based equivalence, addressing equivalence at different grammatical levels Additionally, Koller (as cited in Newmark, 2006, pp 46-48) underscores the significance of meaning-based equivalence in translation.
The importance of equivalence is particularly evident in translation revision and quality assessment, as a successful translation encompasses not only accurate meaning but also factors like style, communicative value, and aesthetic effect It is the translator's responsibility to prioritize either the form or the meaning of the text, thereby determining the most suitable type of equivalence to apply.
Methods of translation
Peter Newmark has not provided a specific definition for translation methods; however, they can be understood as the overall approach a translator takes to handle the source text This contrasts with translation procedures, which are applied to individual sentences or smaller language units.
Translation methods provide translators with essential theoretical knowledge for effective translation Utilizing various methods on the same source text can lead to diverse interpretations, each differing in form, style, meaning, and overall value.
Newmark (1995) identifies two primary translation methods: semantic translation and communicative translation, both aimed at achieving accuracy and economy Semantic translation is best suited for expressive texts, while communicative translation is designed for informative and vocative texts.
In “A textbook for translation” (1995), he provides a V diagram, pointing out various translation methods:
SL emphasis TL emphasis Word- for- word translation Adaptation
Interlinear translation showcases the target language directly beneath the source language, maintaining the original word order Words are translated individually using their most common meanings, often without context, while cultural terms are translated literally This method primarily serves to help understand the structure of the source language or to clarify challenging texts as part of the pre-translation process.
Source text Word-for-word translation method
She has a sweet tooth C ấy c một ngọt r ng
Literal translation differs from other methods by converting the grammatical structures of the source language into the closest equivalents in the target language, while translating individual lexical words out of context This approach serves as a pre-translation process, highlighting potential issues that need to be addressed.
Source text Literal translation method applied by
The Rat turned from him in despair
„You see what it is?‟ he said to the
Mole expressed his frustration about Toad, declaring, "He's quite hopeless," and decided to abandon the idea of pleasure-seeking with him Instead, he proposed that once they reached the town, they should head to the railway station in hopes of catching a train back to the riverbank that night Mole's irritation was evident as he resolved to avoid future escapades with Toad, focusing solely on their challenging journey ahead.
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
Chuột Nước tuyệt vọng quay mặt đi, không muốn nhìn thằng Cóc nữa Nó hỏi Chuột Chũi: “Cậu thấy rõ tất cả rồi chứ?” và thở dài: “Thật là hết phương cứu chữa Tớ chịu đấy – khi tới thị trấn, chúng ta sẽ ra ga xe lửa, và nếu may mắn, có thể bắt được chuyến tàu về tới Bờ.”
Trong đêm tối, N bày tỏ sự không hài lòng với con vật khó chịu bên cạnh Suốt cuộc hành trình mệt mỏi, N không ngừng khịt mũi và chia sẻ những suy nghĩ của mình với Chuột Chũi.
(Gió qua rặng liễu, translated by Nguyên Tâm)
Faithful translation strives to accurately convey the contextual meaning of the original text while adhering to the grammatical structures of the target language This approach involves transferring cultural terms and maintaining a level of grammatical and lexical deviation from the norms of the source language The primary goal is to remain true to the intentions and textual expression of the original author.
Faithful translation method applied by
Join me, dear Ratty, and your kind friend, if he’s willing, to the stable-yard, where you will discover something interesting! As they approached, the Rat followed with a wary look, and there, in the open, they beheld a brand-new gipsy caravan, gleaming in canary-yellow, adorned with green accents and red wheels.
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
“Chuột S, cùng với người bạn thân mến của cậu, hãy theo tớ đến khu chuồng ngựa Các cậu sẽ được khám phá những điều thú vị ở đó.” Ngay lập tức, Cóc dẫn đường xuống khu chuồng ngựa, nơi Chuột sẽ được chứng kiến những điều bất ngờ.
S ng tỏ ra ngờ vực khi nhìn thấy chiếc xe lưu động kiểu du mục mới tinh, được sơn màu vàng chim hoàng yến nổi bật, với những mảng xanh lá cây và bánh xe đỏ, đã được kéo ra từ nhà để xe ra ngoài trời.
(Gió đùa rặng liễu, translated by Cẩm Linh)
Semantic translation prioritizes the aesthetic qualities of the source language, distinguishing it from faithful translation It often opts for culturally neutral terms instead of cultural equivalents for less significant cultural words, making minor adjustments to better suit the audience's understanding.
The difference between "faithful" and "semantic" translation lies in their approach; faithful translation is strict and rigid, whereas semantic translation is more adaptable, allowing for creative deviations from complete fidelity and fostering the translator's intuitive connection with the original text.
Source text Semantic translation method applied by
„We can‟t leave him here, sitting in the middle of the road by himself, in the distracted state he‟s in! It‟s not safe
As they continued on their journey, Rat expressed his frustration with Toad, declaring he was done with him However, Toad soon caught up to them, panting heavily and lost in thought, as he squeezed his paws into the elbows of both Rat and the other companion.
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
Translation quality assessment
Translation quality assessment, referred to as translation criticism by Newmark, serves as a vital connection between translation theory and practice In his book, *A Textbook of Translation*, Newmark emphasizes this relationship, highlighting its significance in the translation process.
In 1988, a comprehensive framework for translation quality assessment was proposed, emphasizing five key areas for evaluation First, it requires a brief analysis of the source language (SL) text, focusing on its intention and functional aspects Second, it involves examining the translator's interpretation of the SL text's purpose, their chosen translation method, and the anticipated readership Third, a selective yet representative comparison between the translation and the original text is essential Fourth, an overall evaluation of the translation must be conducted Lastly, when relevant, the assessment should consider the translation's potential role within the target language culture or discipline.
In more detailed description of translation quality assessment, Newmark
According to (1988), comparing a translation to its original text is essential for assessing its reference and pragmatic accuracy To achieve an effective comparison, it is crucial to evaluate the translation against the criteria established in the source text, emphasizing the need to analyze the reference and pragmatic elements within the original work first.
According to Newmark (1991, p.188), translations should be assessed based on their own standards of referential and pragmatic accuracy, with the purpose of the translation taken into account as a primary factor in the evaluation Furthermore, Newmark (1995, p.188) emphasizes that translations should be judged as independent pieces of writing, separate from their original texts.
METHODOLOGY
Sampling
This study employs a methodological approach to collect, analyze, and interpret data on translation methods used in the second chapter of Kenneth Grahame's "The Wind in the Willows." It focuses on two distinct translations by professional translators: "Gio Qua Rang Lieu" by Nguyen Tam (Nha Nam Publisher) and "Gio Đua Rang Lieu" by Nguyen Thi Cam Linh (Phu Nu Publisher), facilitating an in-depth examination of the applied translation techniques in this literary work.
The story “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame and its translations are chosen in this case study on translation methods for the following reasons
Published in 1908, "The Wind in the Willows" is a beloved children's story that resonates with readers into adulthood This classic tale, infused with British humor and anthropomorphism, explores themes of river life and friendship As readers embark on thrilling adventures with the characters, they also encounter important lessons about loyalty, manners, self-restraint, and camaraderie.
This 105-year-old artwork has been republished numerous times and translated into various foreign languages, with millions of copies sold globally The first Vietnamese translation was done by Nguyen Tam.
In 2006, Nguyen Thi Cam Linh translated the work, followed by another translation in 2011, both of which have earned her recognition and success among Vietnamese translators The skill and expertise of these translations have elevated them to a significant level, successfully entertaining and enriching the lives of young Vietnamese readers, just as they do for children globally.
The reasons above make studying the methods applied in translating the story
Reading and analyzing "The Wind in the Willows" is not a tedious task; rather, it is an enriching and enjoyable experience In this analysis, we will focus specifically on the second chapter of the story, delving into its themes and characters.
Data collection procedure
The study employs an observation instrument to analyze two translation versions alongside the original English text A thorough and critical reading reveals various translation methods used in converting English to Vietnamese Key sentences and expressions are identified and highlighted, forming the basis for further research in the study.
Data analysis procedure
The collected data were analyzed through the following phases:
In this phase, the researcher employs qualitative data analysis to systematically identify and document the various translation methods utilized in each translation This meticulous reading and comprehension process allows for a comprehensive understanding of the dimensions involved, ultimately leading to insightful results that address the research questions.
20 research question 1: What are the methods applied in translating Kenneth Grahame‟s “The Wind in the Willows” by each translator?
The coded data is categorized based on the methods employed, followed by a quantitative analysis to determine the frequency of each identified method, converting the data into numerical statistics The findings are then presented through tables and charts, accompanied by remarks This analysis addresses research question 2: What are the most common translation methods used by each translator?
The qualitative analysis method is utilized to compare translations by two different translators, aiming to identify the more effective translation method This evaluation addresses research question 3 by determining which translation proves to be more successful, ultimately providing recommendations for the most suitable translation approach for the text in question.
FINDINGS & DISCUSSION
Major findings
This part would examine the 2 translation versions of The Wind in the Willows, by Nguyen Tam (Nha Nam Publisher) and by Nguyen Thi Cam Linh (Phu
Nu Publisher) to answer the 2 research questions: 1) What are the translation methods applied by each translator? And 2) What are the most frequently used translation methods by each translator?
4.1.1 Translation methods applied by Nguyen Tam
Below is the chart describing the result of the analysis and coding phrase with respect to the frequency of each translation method:
Figure 4.1.1: Translation methods applied by Nguyen Tam
Literal translation methodSemantic translation methodFaithful translation methodAdaptation translation methodFree translation method
The chart indicates that Nguyen Tam predominantly employs the literal translation method, which constitutes over 80% of his total translations In contrast, the semantic, faithful, free, and adaptation methods represent only 9%, 3%, 2%, and 2% of the total units, respectively Notably, the word-by-word, idiomatic, and communicative translation methods outlined by Newmark are not utilized in his work.
For translators striving to achieve the most accurate translation that effectively conveys the author's messages to the target language readers, the literal translation method is often the primary approach used.
Source text Literal translation method applied by
„There‟s Toad Hall,‟ said the Rat;
„and that creek on the left, where the notice board says, “Private No landing allowed,” leads to his boat- house, where we‟ll leave the boat
The stables are located to the right, while the historic banqueting hall stands before you Toad, who is quite wealthy, owns one of the finest houses in the area, although we never openly acknowledge this to him.
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
“Kia là Lâu đài C c,” Chuột Nước nói,
Nhánh s nằm bên tay trái, nơi có bảng thông báo "Tư gia Cấm đậu thuyền," dẫn đến nhà để thuyền Chúng tôi sẽ để thuyền tại đó, trong khi chuồng gia súc nằm bên tay phải Phòng tiệc mà cậu đang nhìn đã cũ, nhưng thằng Cóc khá giàu và tòa nhà này thực sự là một trong những tòa nhà đẹp nhất vùng, mặc dù chúng tôi không bao giờ thừa nhận điều đó với thằng Cóc.
(Gió qua rặng liễu, translated by Nguyên Tâm)
The example clearly demonstrates the use of literal translation, where details are translated word-for-word and sentence structures remain close to the original, even if they sound unnatural in the target language For instance, in Vietnamese, inserting "cậu biết đấy" between two clauses in a complex sentence can feel awkward.
Nguyen Tam emphasizes the importance of considering the cultural backgrounds and aesthetic values of target readers in translation This is evident in the use of non-literal translation methods, which make up approximately 15% of the cases examined.
Nguyen Tam employs semantic translation as a non-literal method that prioritizes the aesthetic value of both the source and target texts This approach incorporates rhetorical devices and vivid imagery, ensuring a faithful yet expressive translation.
Source text Literal translation method applied by
„He must be a very nice animal,‟ observed the Mole, as he got into the boat and took the sculls, while the
Rat settled himself comfortably in the stern
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
Chuột Chũi nhận xét rằng anh chàng đó rất tế nhị khi bước lên thuyền và nắm lấy mái chèo, trong khi Chuột Nước thì thoải mái ngồi ở ghế bành phía đuôi thuyền.
(Gió qua rặng liễu, translated by Nguyên Tâm)
In English, "stern" denotes the front part of a ship, translated as "mũi thuyền" in Vietnamese However, Nguyen Tam creatively translates it as "chiếc ghế bành phía đu i thuyền," adding a vivid imagery that enhances character relatability and liveliness in the story Since their introduction, Mole, Rat, and Toad have captured the hearts of young readers, not only through their captivating adventures but also by being portrayed as genuine friends that resonate with children.
Source text Semantic translation method applied by
„Now, you dear good old Ratty,‟ said
Toad, imploringly, „don‟t begin talking in that stiff and sniffy sort of way, because you know you‟ve got to come
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
"Thưa bạn Chuột Nước thân mến, xin đừng nói với giọng điệu châm biếm và khinh thường nữa, vì bạn cũng hiểu rằng bạn cần phải đến."
(Gió qua rặng liễu, translated by Nguyên Tâm)
The semantic method effectively translates the rhetorical device of alliteration in the phrase "stiff and sniffy" to "đay nghiến và khinh khỉnh." This translation remains true to the original meaning while offering a more aesthetically pleasing alternative compared to "cứng nhắc và khinh người" or "gay gắt và khinh miệt."
Faithful translation is a non-literal translation method that ensures the contextual meaning is accurately conveyed from the author to the readers This approach involves replacing culturally specific items from the source language with the closest equivalent in denotative meaning in the target language.
Source text Faithful translation method applied by
Finally, the horse was caught and harnessed, and they began their journey, with everyone chattering excitedly Each animal either walked alongside the cart or perched on the shaft, enjoying the moment It was a beautiful golden afternoon.
(The Wind in the Willows, Kenneth
Cuối cùng, nhóm bạn đã bắt được ngựa và chuẩn bị yên cương, sau đó khởi hành với niềm vui Mọi người đều hào hứng trò chuyện, có người đi bộ bên cạnh xe, có người ngồi trên càng xe, tùy theo sở thích của mỗi người Buổi chiều hôm đó thật sự mang lại hạnh phúc cho tất cả.
(Gió qua rặng liễu, translated by Nguyên Tâm)
The term "golden" in "a golden age" signifies a period of universal happiness, a concept easily understood by English speakers However, directly translating it to Vietnamese as "1 buổi chiều vàng" or "1 buổi chiều hoàng kim" could lead to confusion among readers In the context of the story's beginning, where the adventure unfolds smoothly and under control, the characters' happiness is justified Therefore, a faithful translation approach is suitable in this case.
In short, though literal translation method is most favored by Nguyen Tam, when needed and possible, he also tried to apply some other suitable non-literal methods
4.1.2 Translation methods applied by Cam Linh
Below is the chart describing the result of the analysis and coding phrase with respect to the frequency of each translation method in Cam Linh‟s translation:
Figure 4.1.2: Translation methods applied by Cam Linh
Discussion
This research highlights the contrasting translation approaches of two translators, Nguyen Tam and Cam Linh, in their interpretations of "The Wind in the Willows." Nguyen Tam predominantly employs a literal translation method, while Cam Linh opts for a more non-literal approach This section aims to explore specific instances where these differing methods are applied, ultimately assessing which translation technique proves to be more effective for conveying the essence of the text.
4.2.1 Literal and communicative translation method
Source text Literal translation method applied by Nguyen Tam
Communicative translation method applied by Cam Linh
“I don‟t know that I think so very much of that little song,
Mole cautiously He was no poet himself and didn‟t care who knew it; and he had a candid nature
“Tớ biết là tớ không có ý kiến bình phẩm nhiều lắm về ca khúc ngắn ấy,”
Chuột Chũi cẩn trọng phát biểu Bản thân n đâu phải là nhà thơ cũng chẳng cần giấu điều đ , mà bản tính nó vốn bộc trực
Chuột Chũi chăm chú lắng nghe và thẳng thắn bày tỏ: "Chuột Sáng ơi, tớ đã suy nghĩ rất nhiều nhưng vẫn không hiểu bài hát đó."
Different translation methods, excluding adaptation, typically maintain consistency in content but vary in nuance and style However, the literal and communicative translation methods can yield distinct effects on readers and different interpretations For instance, Nguyen Tam paraphrases Mole's comment as “I know that I don’t have many comments about this little song,” while Cam Linh interprets it as “I think a lot but still fail to understand this little song.” Both interpretations are valid within context, as Mole, not being a poet, shows indifference towards understanding or commenting on Rat's poem Nevertheless, from a reader-friendly perspective, the communicative translation method proves superior, as it is more concise, natural, and easier to comprehend.
Literal translation method applied by Nguyen Tam
Communicative translation method applied by Cam Linh
„Nor don‟t the ducks neither,‟ replied the Rat cheerfully „They say,
“Why can‟t fellows be allowed to do what they like when they like and as they like, instead of other fellows sitting on banks and watching them all the
“Mà lũ vịt cũng thế th i,” Chuột Nước vui vẻ trả lời “Chúng n bảo,
Tại sao con người không được tự do làm những gì họ thích, vào thời điểm họ muốn và theo cách riêng của mình? Thay vào đó, họ luôn bị những người khác, giống như những kẻ ngồi bên bờ sông, theo dõi và đánh giá hành động của mình.
Chuột Sông hí hửng đáp:
Gia đình nhà vịt không hiểu được điều đó, họ cho rằng chúng tôi có quyền làm bất cứ điều gì vào thời điểm mà chúng tôi thích, chỉ đơn giản vì chúng tôi muốn Người khác có thể ngồi bên bờ và bình luận về chúng tôi, nhưng thực tế là họ không thể hiểu được cuộc sống của chúng tôi.
30 time and making remarks and poetry and things about them?
What nonsense it all is!” That‟s what the ducks say.‟
Grahame) bình phẩm họ và thơ thẩn về họ? Điều đ thậm vô lý!‟ Lũ vịt nói thế đấy.”
(Gió qua rặng liễu) đúng là nhảm nhí quá đi mất.” Đấy, mấy cậu vịt đã bảo tớ thế đấy.”
The expressions and structures in the ducks' comments are complex, particularly the prepositional phrase "instead of," which functions more like "while" to link the two parts of the question: "Why can't fellows do something while others can?" Nguyen Tam's literal translation method maintains the original structure but results in a translation that is difficult to understand and diverges in meaning In contrast, Cam Linh's communicative approach yields a translation that is easier for readers to grasp and aligns more closely with the intended contextual meaning.
4.2.2 Literal and free translation method
Source text Literal translation method applied by Nguyen Tam
Free translation method applied by Cam Linh You surely don‟t mean Chắc chắn cậu không có ý Chắc chắn là cậu không
Embrace adventure and break free from the confines of your mundane surroundings; don't settle for a monotonous life by the riverbank I’m determined to open your eyes to the wonders of the world and transform you into a spirited being ready to explore!
Grahame quyết định gắn bó suốt đời với dòng sông buồn tẻ và hôi hám của mình, sống trong hang trên bờ đê cùng một chiếc thuyền Tớ muốn cho cậu thấy thế giới!
Tớ sẽ khiến cậu trở thành một động vật, anh bạn thân mến ạ!”
Gió lướt qua rặng liễu, nhưng đừng để cuộc sống của bạn chỉ gói gọn trong cái xó bờ sông buồn tẻ ấy Hãy mở lòng và khám phá thế giới rộng lớn bên ngoài, không chỉ quanh quẩn trong hang hay chèo thuyền Tớ mong cậu sẽ có cơ hội chiêm ngưỡng vẻ đẹp của cuộc sống!
Tớ sẽ đánh thức phần con thú ưa hoạt động trong cậu!”
Toad's persuasive words aim to encourage Mole to embrace adventure beyond the confines of their familiar river He emphasizes the regret of living a life limited to the old river and expresses a desire to awaken a latent curiosity in Mole, which he believes is inherent in all creatures However, directly translating the phrase "make an animal of you" to Vietnamese as "khiến cậu trở thành 1 động vật" is problematic If Mole identifies as an animal, the phrase loses its meaning; if he sees himself as human, it sounds awkward due to the negative connotations of "động vật" in Vietnamese A more effective interpretation would focus on "animal" representing one's active and adventurous side, making the message clearer and more impactful.
Source text Free translation method applied by Nguyen Tam
Free translation method applied by Cam Linh
They traveled along narrow country lanes until they finally reached the high road in the afternoon However, an unexpected disaster struck, profoundly impacting their expedition and significantly altering their future endeavors.
(The Wind in the Willows,
Hành trình của chúng tiếp tục qua miền quê trên những con đường hẹp, và chỉ đến chiều mới ra được đường cái đầu tiên Tuy nhiên, tai họa bất ngờ đã ập đến, không chỉ gây nghiêm trọng cho chuyến đi mà còn ảnh hưởng mạnh mẽ đến sự nghiệp sau này của thằng Cóc.
Chuyến đi tiếp tục qua những con đường nhỏ ở miền quê, và chưa đến chiều, họ đã đến con đường cái đầu tiên Tuy nhiên, một tai họa bất ngờ đang rình rập, có thể làm chấn động chuyến viễn du, nhưng lại giúp Cóc tỉnh thức và định hình những theo đuổi trong tương lai.
This example highlights a unique case where both translators opt for free translation, demonstrating its advantages over literal translation methods.
The two translations differ primarily in the linking verb "but" and the phrase "simply overwhelming in its effect." The use of "but" in the source text creates confusion, as it typically connects contrasting ideas In this context, both the significant impact on the expedition and the profound effect on Toad are positive, making the conjunction misleading.
CONCLUSION
Recapitulation
The initial chapter of the study outlines the research problem and its rationale, detailing the aims, objectives, scope, and significance of the paper Crucially, it identifies three key research questions that will serve as a guiding framework for the entire research process.
The second chapter establishes the theoretical framework of the study, focusing on the nature and characteristics of various types of translation, with an emphasis on literary translation It also explores translation methods, particularly through Newmark's perspective, and discusses the concept of translation equivalence.
Chapter 3 mentions the methodology of the study, including the research approach, the sampling, the methods of data collection, and the procedures of data collection and analysis Also, specific reasons why The Wind in the Willows and its
2 translations have been chose to be the sample for the study, are presented
Chapter 4 analyzes the 2 translations of the source text, first focusing on the translation methods applied and the approaches adopted by each translator (reflected by the dominant translation method used) Then, the study goes deeper with the analytical comparison between the 2 translations, paying most attention to differences in the use of translation methods to eventually come up the conclusion answering the question which translation is more successful
Summary of findings
Answer to research question 1: What are the translation methods applied by each translator in translating Kenneth Grahame„s The Wind in the Willows?
In Nguyen Tam's translation, five of Newmark's eight translation methods are utilized, including literal, faithful, semantic, free, and adaptation methods Conversely, Cam Linh's translation does not employ word-for-word or idiomatic methods but includes the communicative translation method The exclusion of the word-for-word method, which translates words literally and out of context primarily for comprehension or pretranslation, alongside the unsuitability of the source text for idiomatic translation, explains the preference of both translators for other methods.
Answer to research question 2: What are the most common translation methods used by each translator?
Nguyen Tam's translation is characterized by a high density of literal translation, whereas Cam Linh employs a more modest approach Favoring non-literal translation methods, Cam Linh primarily utilizes semantic translation, along with communicative, faithful, and free translation techniques.
Answer to research question 3: Which translation is more successful?
Cam Linh's translation, utilizing a non-literal approach, proves to be more effective than Nguyen Tam's literal method While Nguyen Tam's translation closely adheres to the original text in terms of words and syntax, this fidelity often renders the content too "foreign" for target readers In contrast, Cam Linh's translation employs non-literal methods that create a natural flow in the target text, making it more accessible and engaging for readers, while still preserving the artistic essence of the original literary masterpiece.
Limitations of the study
Mastering translation methods and literary translation presents significant challenges This brief study, constrained by my limited knowledge, experience, and available resources, inevitably leaves many aspects unaddressed Specifically, the focus is solely on English-Vietnamese translation.
2 nd chapter of the book is deeply analyzed.
Suggestions for further study
To address the limitations in translation methods, further studies are essential, particularly focusing on English-Vietnamese and Vietnamese-English translations By utilizing a larger sample size, these research efforts can yield more objective and meaningful results, providing valuable insights into the field of translation.
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APPENDIX TRANSLATION METHODS APPLIED BY EACH TRANSLATOR
No Source text Target text translated by Nguyen Tam
LITERAL TRANSLATION METHOD ĐƯỜNG CÁI
Mole suddenly, one bright summer morning, „if you please, I want to ask you a favour.‟
The Rat was sitting on the river bank, singing a little song
He had just composed it himself, so he was very taken up with it, and would not pay proper attention to
“Chuột Nước ơi,” bỗng Chuột Chũi n i vào một sớm hè rực rỡ, “mong cậu vui lòng cho tớ được xin một ân huệ.”
Chuột Nước ngồi bên bờ sông, say mê sáng tác một bài ca giản dị mà không để ý đến Chuột Chũi hay ai khác Trong khi đó, từ sáng sớm, nó đã cùng những người bạn vịt bơi lội vui vẻ dưới dòng sông.
Và khi lũ vịt bỗng nhiên
Một sáng hè đẹp trời, Chuột Chũi chợt hỏi Chuột Sông:
“Chuột S ng ơi, tớ nhờ cậu cái này c được kh ng?”
Chuột Sông đang ngồi bên bờ sông, say sưa hát một bài hát mới sáng tác mà nó rất yêu thích Trong lúc mải mê với giai điệu, nó không để ý đến Chuột Chũi hay bất kỳ điều gì xung quanh Từ sáng sớm, Chuột Sông đã bơi lội cùng bầy vịt bạn, và thỉnh thoảng, những chú vịt lại vục đầu xuống nước như thường lệ Khi đó, Chuột Sông lặn xuống theo, hòa mình vào không gian vui tươi của dòng sông.
Since early morning, the Water Rat had been swimming in the river with his friends, the ducks He playfully dove underwater to tickle their necks, causing them to surface spluttering and shaking their feathers in frustration, as it's hard to express feelings when submerged Eventually, the ducks begged him to leave them alone so they could manage their own affairs In response, the Water Rat moved to the riverbank to bask in the sun, where he composed a song about the ducks.
Phương pháp dịch nghĩa đen diễn tả cảnh tượng những con vịt bị nhấn chìm dưới nước, khiến chúng phải vùng vẫy và ho sặc sụa để thoát lên mặt nước Cảm giác khi đầu bị nhúng dưới nước thật khó diễn tả Cuối cùng, những con vịt phải cầu xin Chuột S ng hãy rời đi để chúng được yên Sau đó, N ng ngồi tắm nắng bên bờ sông và sáng tác một bài hát về lũ vịt, mà N đặt tên là:
3 go away and attend to his own affairs and leave them to mind theirs So the
Rat went away, and sat on the river bank in the sun, and made up a song about them, which he called:
All along the backwater, Through the rushes tall, Ducks are a-dabbling, Up tails all!
Ducks‟ tails, drakes‟ tails, Yellow feet a- quiver, Yellow bills all out of sight Busy in the river!
BÀI CA NGẮN VỀ LŨ VỊT
Suốt dọc vùng nước nông, Qua đám c i cao vút,
Lũ vịt bì bõm bơi, Đu i chổng hết lên trời!
Nào đu i vịt đực, nào đu i vịt cái, Những bàn chân vàng run rẩy,
Chẳng thấy những chiếc mỏ vàng Bận rộn dưới nước sông
Nơi cỏ tóc tiên xanh biếc vấy bùn
Bọn cá trắm tung t ng bơi ĐOẢN KHÚC VỊT
Theo dòng nước mát Nghe đám c i hát Đàn vịt xinh xinh Cùng chổng đu i bơi!
Chị vịt, anh vịt Chân vàng khỏa nước
Mỏ vàng kiếm n Dòng sông nhộn nhịp
4 undergrowth where the roach swim
Here we keep our larder
Cool and full and dim
Everyone for what he likes! We like to be
High in the blue above Swifts whirl and call
We are down a- dabbling Up tails all! lội –
Ta đặt tủ thức n ở đây, Vừa mát vừa đầy lại vừa tối
Ai muốn gì thì muốn, Chúng ta chỉ muốn được Đầu chúi xuống nước, đu i chổng lên trời, Tha hồ vầy nước lội bơi!
Tít trên bầu trời xanh Đàn én vừa lao nhanh vừa gọi,
Chúng ta ở dưới này bì bõm bơi, Đu i chổng hết lên trời!
Là kho thức n Tươi ngon dồi dào
Ngụp đầu, chổng đu i Vịt thích lắm đấy Bơi lội tung t ng!
Trời cao trong xanh Chim én lượn quanh Bầy vịt bơi nhanh Cùng chổng đu i lên!
“I don‟t know that I think so very much of that little song, Rat,‟ observed the Mole cautiously He was no poet himself and
“Tớ biết là tớ không có ý kiến bình phẩm nhiều lắm về ca khúc ngắn ấy,”
Chuột Chũi cẩn trọng phát biểu Bản thân n đâu phải là nhà thơ cũng
Chuột Chũi chăm chú lắng nghe, không có tính cách thi sĩ và không ngại khi mọi người biết điều đó Với tính cách thật thà và bộc trực, nó nói: “Chuột Sống ơi, tớ nghĩ…”
5 didn‟t care who knew it; and he had a candid nature chẳng cần giấu điều đ , mà bản tính nó vốn bộc trực
LITERAL TRANSLATION METHOD mãi mà vẫn không hiểu bài hát ấy.”
„Nor don‟t the ducks neither,‟ replied the
Rats express frustration over societal restrictions, questioning why individuals can't freely pursue their desires without the constant scrutiny and judgment from others They find it absurd that people sit idly, observing and critiquing, rather than allowing others to enjoy their lives authentically.
That‟s what the ducks say.‟ „So it is, so it is,‟ said the Mole, with great heartiness
“Mà lũ vịt cũng thế th i,”
Chuột Nước vui vẻ trả lời
Tại sao con người không được phép làm những gì họ thích, vào thời điểm họ muốn và theo cách riêng của mình, trong khi những người khác chỉ ngồi bên lề, quan sát và phê phán? Điều này thật vô lý!
“Đúng là như thế, đúng là như thế,” Chuột Chũi n i, rất chân thành
“Kh ng, kh ng đúng!”
Chuột Nước nói, vẻ công phẫn
“Vậy thì điều đ kh ng đúng, kh ng đúng,”
Chuột Sông hí hửng đáp:
Gia đình nhà vịt không hiểu được tâm tư của mình, và họ còn nói rằng: "Chúng tôi có quyền làm những gì mình thích vào bất kỳ lúc nào, chỉ vì chúng tôi muốn thế, trong khi người khác chỉ ngồi từ xa và bình luận về chúng tôi một cách vô nghĩa." Thật sự, điều đó thật là nhảm nhí.
“Đúng, các cậu ấy n i đúng lắm!” – Chuột Chũi n i đế
“Đúng cái con khỉ!” – Chuột Sông bực dọc kêu
“Ừ, đúng cái gì mà đúng, chẳng đúng gì sất!” – Chuột Chũi dịu giọng – “Mà này,
„No, it isn‟t!‟ cried the Rat indignantly
„Well then, it isn‟t, it isn‟t,‟ replied the
Mole soothingly „But what I wanted to ask you was, won‟t you take me to call on Mr
Toad? I‟ve heard so much about him, and
I do so want to make his acquaintance.‟
Chuột Chũi dịu dàng đáp
“Nhưng điều mình muốn hỏi cậu là, cậu kh ng định dẫn tớ ghé th m anh bạn
C c ư? Tớ nghe nói nhiều về cậu ấy lắm, và quả tình tớ muốn làm quen với cậu ấy.”
Phương pháp dịch nghĩa đen: "Việc tớ muốn hỏi cậu là cậu có dẫn tớ đến nhà Cóc không? Tớ nghe nhắc đến Cóc nhiều rồi nên muốn gặp gỡ làm quen quá."
The good-natured Rat eagerly suggested getting the boat ready to visit Toad, emphasizing that there’s no bad time to see him Toad is consistently cheerful and welcoming, always expressing joy at the arrival of friends.
Chuột Nước hiền hậu quyết định dừng lại việc thơ phú và nhanh chóng đứng dậy Anh nói: “Lấy thuyền ra đi, chúng mình sẽ chèo đến ngay lập tức.” Dù đến sớm hay muộn, thằng Cóc vẫn luôn hiền lành và vui mừng khi gặp bạn, điều này khiến Chuột Nước cảm thấy thoải mái và hạnh phúc.
“Lấy thuyền đi, bọn mình khởi hành ngay!” – Chuột Sông vui vẻ nhảy lên, quên hết những lo lắng trước đó Mỗi khi gặp gỡ, dù sáng sớm hay tối muộn, anh chàng Cóc luôn hân hoan chào đón bạn và buồn bã khi phải chia tay.
“Cậu ấy hẳn là đáng mến lắm!”
7 when you go!‟ „He must be a very nice animal,‟ observed the
Mole, as he got into the boat and took the sculls, while the Rat settled himself comfortably in the stern
„He is indeed the best of animals,‟ replied
The rat is characterized as simple, good-natured, and affectionate, embodying qualities that endear him to others While he may not possess exceptional intelligence and can sometimes come off as boastful or conceited, his positive traits shine through, making him a lovable character.
Rounding a bend in the river, they came in sight of a handsome, dignified old house of mellowed red brick, khi cậu ra về!”
“Anh chàng ấy hẳn phải là một con vật rất tế nhị,”
Chuột Chũi nhận xét khi n bước lên thuyền và nắm lấy mái chèo, trong khi đ Chuột Nước thoải mái ngồi vào một chiếc ghế bành phía đu i thuyền
“N quả là loài vật tốt nhất trong số các con vật,” Chuột Nước nhận xét “Nó rất giản dị, hiền lành và tràn đầy tình cảm Có thể nó không thông minh lắm, nhưng không phải ai cũng là thiên tài; và có lẽ nó cũng có phần khoác lác và tự mãn.”
Nhưng mà n c những phẩm chất tuyệt vời, thật đấy.”
Vòng qua một chỗ sông rẽ, chúng nhìn thấy một tòa nhà cổ kính, bề thế và đẹp đẽ làm bằng gạch màu phớt đỏ, với những