Mary Phillips answers “Is this translation good?”

Jared Rosen asked this question about Don Quixote:

Is this translation good?

Mary Phillips This version was translated by Walter Starkie. It has ISBN 0 451 51821 7

Yes, this is a good translation. I have never found an ideal translation, to m…moreThis version was translated by Walter Starkie. It has ISBN 0 451 51821 7

Yes, this is a good translation. I have never found an ideal translation, to my mind, but this one is good. Copyright 1957 and 1964. My copy was printed in November, 1964.

The problem with translations is it is hard to include the multi-layer subtleties of the original piece of work when you are trying to also make sense in the target language.

The Walter Starkie version has places where I feel it does quite well.

The Spanish that Cervantes used has timing, rhythm, and lilt that is different from New World Spanish and American English. In the hands of a master, American English prose can put you in the flow or bliss zone, too. It takes craft.

One day, maybe I will translate it myself. That's probably more like a five-year project for me. I will need to spend more time in Spain. (less)

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