The Translationese Renaissance: Challenging Standard Thai Writing in Literature
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Abstract
Translationese has traditionally been viewed as derogatory and characterized as producing unnatural translations. This perception has prompted Thai translators to enshrine idiomatic expression over the use of translationese. In Thailand, where official establishments and institutes have encouraged people to be guardians of the purity of the language under the concept of Thainess, incorporating English-influenced features into Thai writing is often labelled “defective” and “unidiomatic.” However, this article seeks to rethink translationese and introduce a fresh perspective by examining the adoption of translationese features in the works of Prapt, a contemporary Thai author known for his unconventional approach to writing. Through a qualitative analysis of examples from his four distinguished novels and an interview, the article explores the possible reasons why Prapt’s unconventional writing withstands editorial review(s) and examines the potential consequences of embracing translationese in Thai literature.
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บทความทุกบทความเป็นลิขสิทธิ์ของภาษาและภาษาศาสตร์
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