Translating Young Adult Literature: The High Circulation Rate of Youth Language and Other Related Translation Problems in The Catcher in the Rye and The Outsiders

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the main characteristics of young adult literature and particularly the youth language that is often featured in this type of literature. It explores the effect of youth language on a piece of literature in terms of (possibly) becoming outdated. This is illustrated by analysing several translations of J.D. Salinger's 'The Catcher in the Rye', which are then compared to the translation of S.E. Hinton's 'The Outsiders'. Finally, based on the conclusion of the different analyses, the thesis offers a more modern translation containing more youth language, while at the same time attempting to avoid the risk of quickly becoming dated in the near future.