口译笔译分别，Differences between interpretation and translation

Differences between Translation and Interpretation

At a Master course introduction seminar in 2006, I had expressed views on the differences between translation and interpretation. I likened translation to motion picture martial arts choreography and interpretation to actual combat.

In martial arts choreography time and resources are available to produce the desired effect, that is equivalent to the translator working with reference material, dictionaries, the Internet and a distant deadline in mind. The interpreter however is armed with nothing but his own experience and knowledge, and must perform on the spot. For example, in court interpreting he needs to be familiar with legal terms and definitions.

Taking the idea further, a comparison of the mental approaches of these 2 disciplines can be drawn through the analogy of architectural and sports photography. The layperson would identify both activities as photography and might assume the equipment used and approaches are similar. That is overly simplistic. Architectural photographers usually shoot in large film format, require sturdy tripods, perspective correction lens, filters etc; whereas sports photographers require smaller handheld cameras for superior mobility.

Apart from the different equipment used, the thinking processes of these disciplines also vary. The architectural photographer makes a long and detailed study of his subject. Through observation and planning he tries to determine the best season for shooting, the time of day with the best lighting, and the weather conditions that fit the mood of the scene. I would assert that 99% of the work is done before the shutter is even pressed.

The sports photographer seeks drama where he hopes to capture moments of interest. Here, he anticipates the critical moment that is about to unfold. For example, in a soccer match penalty kick, he wishes to capture the moment the soccer ball hits the back of the net. Mentally, he anticipates where the goalkeeper is leaping towards, left or right, high or low and composes his picture accordingly. It would be impossible to follow the trajectory of the ball as it flies through space and focus accordingly. Instead, he positions himself in the area where the ball is going to strike and shoots multiple frames as the ball approaches.

The mental approach of the translator and interpreter also differ. The translator would study his subject material, formulate translation strategies, envision potential problems and devise solutions before any translation attempt, most likely in the comfort of his home or office. In that, he resembles the architectural photographer, where the subject is static and he can exercise his craft when all preparatory conditions are met. The interpreter, working on the scene, has to anticipate the flow of the dialogue and maintain accuracy and consistency within his work session. Like the sports photographer, his performance is determined by how well he understands and portrays the dynamic situation.

Early in my career, I relied heavily on language skills alone. Over the years, I have come to grasp the working of interpretation a bit more. If the skills of martial arts and sports photography can be acquired, the same can be said of interpretation. It is only a matter of finding appropriate material and instruction. On the subject of instruction, it is my belief that interpretation instruction should be carried out in small classes.

Music theory can be taught in large classes, but instrument instruction is carried out in small numbers. The piano instructor has just one instrument and student to work with each session. Similarly, interpretation instruction should be conducted under an apprenticeship system. In conclusion, interpretation can be taught and learnt given the right material, instruction and class size.