Behinds Quote by Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
“Unfortunately, it happens all too seldom that you really disappear behind a work, that you are no longer audible as an interpreter.”
About This Quote
When an interpreter becomes so absorbed in the text they are translating that they lose their own voice, the audience hears only the work, not the interpreter's presence.
In simple terms: Loss of interpreter's audible presence
Key Takeaway
Over‑identification with material erases personal voice
Themes
communication
identity
presence
authenticity
professionalism
Mood
reflective
introspective
Type
observation
advice
When to use this quote
- live translation events
- theatrical performances
- multilingual conferences
- broadcast subtitling
Key Concepts
interpretation
self‑effacement
audibility
Practical Applications
- training interpreters to maintain vocal presence
- designing audio cues to signal interpreter identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does an interpreter balance fidelity to the source with personal presence?
- When might disappearing behind the work be advantageous?
A Different Perspective
A skilled interpreter can deliberately blend into the work, enhancing immersion for the audience.
