Book translators convert literature from one language to another, allowing for the sharing of ideas and concepts across cultures. This job is challenging as the translator must accurately convey the tone and meaning of the original work. Fluency in both languages and a degree in literature are usually required.
A book translator, also known as a literary translator, transforms the original language a book is written in into another language. The types of books she translates typically include fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. She can work as an independent contractor, freelance or as an employee of a literary translation service.
The aim of literary translation is to allow the sharing of literature, ideas, visions and concepts across languages and cultures. There are no limits or restrictions on which languages need translators. Almost every culture and country in the world has literary works by authors whose books are highly sought after by those who do not read or speak the language in which they are written.
A book translator is generally considered to be one of the toughest jobs in the publishing world. An interpreter, who translates verbal communications, has the advantage of having the person he is currently translating for able to check the validity of his interpretations. On the other hand, a literary translator usually works in a remote location not even close to the author. In the case of classic works, the author usually dies.
It is usually considered a much more difficult task to translate written words than spoken ones, because the tone of the work can easily be lost or misunderstood by one or just a few misinterpreted words or phrases. An accurate, word-for-word interpretation of a book translator’s original work is rarely an accurate replication of the author’s initial book. Many words or phrases translated literally completely miss the author’s intended message.
Typically, a successful book translator is required to have a deep understanding of the source and target languages of the literary work. Source language refers to the language in which the original work was written. Target language is the term for the language into which the book will be translated. Understanding the intended literary tone of the original book is as important to translation as the interpretation of the words.
Before a literary translator applies his linguistic knowledge to translating books, he usually hones his skills on smaller projects. Import and export companies often require competent translators, fluent in multiple languages, to help them conduct business. Government agencies are also a popular place where literary translators can improve their proficiency. Copying foreign language text is also considered a good job for aspiring book translators.
Educational requirements for a book translator vary by assignment. Generally, she is fluent in at least two languages. A degree in literature is often preferred as it provides an educational foundation in literary interpretation. Creative writing skills are generally considered a plus for candidates for this position.
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