Found in translation: Rethinking the relationship between fan translation groups and licensed distributors of anime and manga

Abstract

This article examines contemporary systems, both legal and illegal, of anime and manga translation and distribution to English-speaking audiences. Rather than lumping fan translation in with practices such as fanart, cosplay or fan fiction, this article argues for a different understanding of the particularized labour of fan-operated anime and manga translation groups. Specifically, the continued existence of fan translation groups is considered indicative of consumers attempting to fill a gap in service not satisfied by licensed industry players – and fan translation itself as a practice born of consumer desire and perceived necessity, rather than creative or transformative expression.