Translator’s (In)visibility: A Case Study of Howard Goldblatt’s Translation of Red Sorghum

Abstract

Increasing studies approach translation from alternative aspects, either borrowing different methodologies or concepts from other disciplines. These various attempts have expanded the field of translation studies to a broader area with a focus on either intercultural studies or the translator’s studies. Howard Goldblatt, as a respected translator in China, has provided limitless insights into Chinese literature in translation. Recent studies are moving closer to the specific traits of the translator, and this study thus focuses on Goldblatt’s translation of Red Sorghum, as the original work boasts plenty of cultural words, regional dialects, and colloquialisms. The purpose of this study is to determine Goldblatt’s translation tendency, the corresponding translation methods he adopted, as well as the reasons behind correspondent behaviors and choices. To answer the above inquiries, quantitative and qualitative methods will be jointly adopted. Multiple factors leading to the translator’s visibility and invisibility are also analyzed with reference to the quantitative results.