In the world of theatre, where every word and every nuance matters, the role of a literary translator is often overlooked, yet it is a vital one. The work of Monica Capuani, a leading translator bringing international theatre to Italian audiences, is a testament to this. Her latest project, translating Marina Carr's play 'Mirandolina' from Italian to English and back again, showcases the intricate process and the challenges faced by these unsung heroes. This article delves into the art of theatrical translation, the impact of AI on the profession, and the personal journey of Capuani, who navigates the delicate balance between preserving the original text and adapting it for a new audience.
The Art of Translating Theatre
The translation of theatre is a unique art form, requiring a deep understanding of both the source text and the target language. In the case of 'Mirandolina', Capuani had to navigate the complexities of translating a play that was both a reimagining of an 18th-century Italian comedy and a contemporary exploration of female fear. The process involved a full circle, from producing a literal English translation to restoring the text into Italian while preserving the linguistic nuances and emotional depth.
One of the key challenges in theatrical translation is the need for precision and subtlety. Unlike literary translation, where a reader can pause and reread a paragraph, in theatre, the audience must grasp the meaning instantly. This demands a level of skill and attention to detail that is often underestimated. Capuani's collaboration with Marina Carr and the cast of 'Mirandolina' highlights the importance of this precision, as they spent countless hours refining the text to ensure it was both true to the original and effective in the new context.
The Impact of AI on Translation
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has raised concerns across the industry. AI-generated translations are becoming more prevalent, and some publishers are even asking human translators to revise or correct AI-generated texts. Capuani is unequivocal in her concern, comparing AI's potential impact on translation to the effect the internet has had on journalism. She argues that AI can be a useful tool, but it should not replace human translators. The skill, experience, and understanding of context that human translators bring to the table are irreplaceable.
The psychological insight and empathy that human translators offer are also crucial. As Sonia Folin, an interpreter, points out, we often seek human connection when faced with automated systems. Similarly, in translation, the human element adds a layer of depth and understanding that AI cannot replicate. Capuani's personal experience with her Lacanian psychoanalyst, where a single linguistic slip revealed hidden associations, underscores the power of human insight in translation.
The Undervalued Profession
Despite the immense skill and effort involved, the profession of translation is often undervalued. Translators are frequently poorly paid and rarely recognised, with their names omitted from play programmes. Capuani's frustration with this is palpable, and she advocates for the defence of human culture and the preservation of the art of translation. She believes that the profession must adapt to the challenges posed by AI, but it should not be replaced.
In conclusion, the art of theatrical translation is a delicate balance between preserving the original text and adapting it for a new audience. The work of Monica Capuani and Marina Carr in 'Mirandolina' showcases the power of this art form and the challenges it faces. As AI continues to evolve, the profession must adapt, but the human element will remain crucial. The defence of human culture and the preservation of the art of translation are essential, and the work of Capuani and others like her is a testament to this.
