Translating Iqbal: An Evaluation of Selections from Three English Translations of Shikwa and Jawab-e-Shikwa

Abstract

This article aims at investigating the lexical choices and syntactical strategies used by the translators in the selection from three English translations of Iqbal’s ‘Shikwa’ and ‘Jawab-e-Shikwa’. Moreover, it explores how these translations exhibit similarities and differences with the original text. The researchers have used Vinay and Darbelnt’s model (2004) of stylistic analysis for examining the source text and the target texts. After analyzing the translations of the selected stanzas, it has been found that the translators have used a variety of approaches for rendering the Source Text (ST), which consequently resulted in different translation products. However, in some places, the translations also show some similarities. The study concludes that verse to verse translation, with absolute perfection, is not possible, especially in the present case, where the languages involved are syntactically and culturally different. Moreover, the knowledge of the translator regarding technical aspects of poetry is also significant in the translation process. The study also indicates that loss and gain are likely to occur in the process of translation as sometimes the translator has to opt for either preserving the meaning of the original or maintaining the poetic beauty in the translation. Lastly, the study recommends that the translators should focus on creating a balance in transferring both content and form.