In Search of Translingual Synonyms: Theoretical and Practical Paradigms in Literary Translation

Focusing on both theoretical and practical issues that influence literary translation, the different aspects of translation have been explored in this article. Translation is not a mere transference of ideas from one language to another, rather it involves deep cultural and political implications while dealing with the linguistic complexities. Insights from translation theorists like Steiner, Berman, and Bassnett, whose theories revolve around the translator’s role in navigating between fidelity to the original text and adaptation to the target audience’s preferences, have been discussed and debated. The research also brings into the question the creative responsibility of the translator who is supposed to keep the creative core of the original work intact while catering to readers from a different cultural/linguistic context in a form that is easily accessible and engaging. It argues that for a translation to be considered successful, linguistic proficiency alone is not enough, but a sincere understanding of the cultural contexts is a must, which transforms translation into an act of cultural transcreation. Moreover, the article delves into the ethical dimensions of translation, questioning the motives behind translation and how that can potentially shape, and be shaped by, ideologies.