Today's LA Times book section has an article by Chase Yun discussing Han Kang's novel The Vegetarian. The novel's English translation received the Man Booker Prize. The award has powered sales for both the English and the Korean versions. But a debate has emerged over the accuracy and authenticity of the translation. It is an interesting article and it reminds us to talk with students about the peculiarities of language and culture that may be lost in translation and the things that translation might bring into sharper focus because it is for a foreign audience. http://www.latimes.com/books/jacketcopy/la-ca-jc-korean-translation-20170922-story.html
Have you read this book? Have you encountered anything similar where the translation is spectacular, yet not filial to the original? How do you discuss the translation question as you work with students using primary sources or literature in translation?