Able Quote by Joan Larkin
“Rhythms and sounds are often the first thing I hear and want in a poem, so I can't imagine trying to translate something without at least being able to hear what it sounds like.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Poetry discussion, Joan Larkin, 2015
Poetry relies on rhythm and sound; without hearing them, translation feels incomplete.
In simple terms: Poetry needs rhythm and sound to translate.
Listen to the poem’s music before translating.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- translating poetry
- teaching poetry
- writing workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does sound shape meaning in poetry?
- Can a poem be faithful without its rhythm?
If you focus only on literal meaning, you may lose musicality.