The Challenges And Opportunities of Translating Poetry: A Case Study of Aniketana by L.K. Ateeq

Abstract

Translation is both an art and a challenge, especially when dealing with poetry. This study examines the complexities faced by translators, focusing on the English translation of the Kannada poem Aniketana by L.K. Ateeq. The analysis highlights the difficulties in preserving the essence, rhythm, and conveying the emotions of the original text. The process of converting a deeply rooted Kannada literary piece into English leads to inevitable compromises in meaning, tone, and philosophical references. Through a comparative analysis, this paper aims to showcase how translation, while bridging linguistic gaps, also transforms poetry in ways that may not always align with the poet’s original vision.