Translation of modern Chinese literature in America - An interview with Jeffrey C. Kinkley

Abstract

The field of translation of modern Chinese literature in America deserves more attention than it has gained. In this interview. Prof. Kinkley, an American historian and sinologist and a translator of Shen Congwen and other Chinese writers, shares with us a scholar translator's interpretation of different cultural and aesthetic norms and values of literature which are frequently encountered in literary translation. Issues covered include the dynamic relationship between the translator and other social agents such as publishers, editors, and book reviewers, the conditions of the reception of Chinese literature as compared with other "foreign" literatures in America, and of translated modern Chinese literature as compared with that of contemporary Chinese literature. The interview also covers issues of readers' expectation, of the complexity of international relationship, and of promoting one's own culture and soft power. As a renowned scholar of historyand literature and a literary translator, Prof. Kinkley's view is exceptionally insightful both for scholarly reflection and for translation practice.