Skip to content

I don't have a philosophy. If I had a philosophy, it's…

“I don't have a philosophy. If I had a philosophy, it's that I'm kind of literal minded. For example, I would never translate poetry - it's too hard, there are too many levels. Not that prose doesn't have many levels, but it's more grounded.” quote by Ann Goldstein
Download Open image
“I don't have a philosophy. If I had a philosophy, it's that I'm kind of literal minded. For example, I would never translate poetry - it's too hard, there are too many levels. Not that prose doesn't have many levels, but it's more grounded.”

Ann Goldstein

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

She admits lacking a formal philosophy, preferring literalism, especially avoiding translating poetry due to its complexity.

In simple terms: She favors straightforward prose over poetic translation.

Key Takeaway

Embrace simplicity in interpretation.

Themes

literature translation philosophy mindset

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

reflective philosophical

When to use this quote

  • working as a translator
  • teaching
  • writing
  • reading poetry

Key Concepts

literalism artistic hierarchy interpretive depth

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value literal accuracy over artistic expression?
  • When is translation necessary?
A Different Perspective

Literal approach may miss poetic nuance.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ann Goldstein

Explore all 20 Ann Goldstein quotes

More Example quotes

Browse all 5,618 Example quotes