A good thing Quote by Lydia Davis
“The existence of another, competing translation is a good thing, in general, and only immediately discouraging to one person - the translator who, after one, two, or three years of more or less careful work, sees another, and perhaps superior, version appear as if overnight.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Translator's Dilemma, Lydia Davis, 1995
Competing translations can be valuable, though they may initially dishearten the original translator.
In simple terms: New versions can be both helpful and unsettling.
Key Takeaway
Embrace competition as a catalyst for growth.
Themes
translation
creativity
professional development
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- publishing
- academic research
- personal writing projects
Key Concepts
literary criticism
intellectual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can translators turn rivalry into learning?
- What practices foster constructive feedback?
A Different Perspective
Competition may breed resentment rather than collaboration.
![“I worked more intensively hour after hour when I was starting out [writing]. More laboriously. I'd say quantity is important as well as quality, and if you're not producing enough, make a schedule and stick to it.” quote by Lydia Davis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/29b/lydia-davis-3244_after-hours_i-worked-more-intensively-hour-after-hou_171566.jpg)
