The Uncrossable Otherness in Language: A Case Study of the Chinese Translation of the Four-worded Synonymous Compounds in Sri Burapha’s Novel ‘Behind The Painting’

Abstract

          This research article aimed to studytheinability to overcome the otherness in the Chinese translation of the four-worded synonymous compounds in Sri Burapha’s novel ‘Behind The Painting’. The study found two aspects of the inability to overcome the otherness: 1) word choices that lack aesthetic quality; and 2) partial translation. The reason behind the word choices that lack aesthetic quality and partial translation, or inability to produce the translation that is in accord with Sri Burapha’s intention, is that the translator was unable to choose the words that have equivalent meanings to the Thai version. The translation of the four-worded synonymous compounds into Chinese language was done by using ordinary words, resulting in the readers’ inability to imagine and understand the original meaning, for example the inability to use words that rhyme, which can create emotional effect, or words with components that convey equivalent meaning to the original version. Therefore, the Chinese version is unable to create true and clear image, feeling, and emotion to the readers.