September 30, 2011 03:20:29
Posted By P & L Blog
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“Translators are the shadow heroes of literature, the often forgotten instruments that make it possible for different cultures to talk to one another.”—Paul Auster
Today is International Translation Day. Although it started as a tribute to St. Jerome, the patron saint of translators, it has evolved into a day when professional translation organizations all over the world recognize the work of translators. Without the work of translators, most people would not be able to read Shakespeare or Tolstoy. They wouldn't have been introduced to magic realism in “A Hundred Years of Solitude” or feared for Harry Potter’s life. Pokemon would be unknown outside Japan, and "Plaza Sesámo" wouldn't mean anything to generations of Latin American children. As for philosophy, much of it would be Greek to the rest of us. Translators work behind the scenes to bring the world together one word at a time. To honor their work, go to the nearest bookstore or library today and start reading a book that's been translated. Imagine the new world you'll discover. |