Translating "Mathematics": The Translation of Spoken Word

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to explore the translation problems that arise when translating spoken word. It will explore translation problems and strategies by presenting the reader with a translation of the poem “Mathematics” by Hollie McNish. First, a general definition of spoken word will be given after which the problems that arise when translating poetry and spoken word will be elaborated upon. This elaboration is followed by an in-depth analysis of both the source text, “Mathematics”, and the target text. Following the analysis is a translation strategy, after which the reader will be presented with an annotated translation. In conclusion, the exploration of the translation and theoretical background shows that the translation of spoken words does not differ much from the translation of poetry. The translator is faced with an extra dimension, the ‘performability’ of the piece, that he or she needs to keep in mind at all stages during translating.