Skip to content

As far as modern writing is concerned, it is rarely…

“As far as modern writing is concerned, it is rarely rewarding to translate it, although it might be easy. Translation is very much like copying paintings.” quote by Boris Pasternak
Download Open image
“As far as modern writing is concerned, it is rarely rewarding to translate it, although it might be easy. Translation is very much like copying paintings.”

Boris Pasternak

About This Quote

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

Translating modern literature is often unrewarding, likened to copying paintings, suggesting loss of originality.

In simple terms: Translation can diminish original art.

Key Takeaway

Value original language.

Themes

translation art originality literature

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • publishing
  • academic study
  • literary criticism
  • cross‑cultural communication

Key Concepts

aesthetic theory linguistics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is translation justified?
  • How can translators preserve artistic intent?
A Different Perspective

Some works lose nuance in translation.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Boris Pasternak

Explore all 189 Boris Pasternak quotes

More Concerned quotes

Browse all 3,551 Concerned quotes