Achieving Eco-Balance in Translating Non-Fiction Literature: An Approach through Adaptation and Selection—With Shark’s Fin and Sichuan Pepper as a Case

Abstract

This paper aims to provide valuable insights for future translators dealing with the English-to-Chinese translation of non-fiction literature, employing principles from Eco-Translatology. The research focuses on the translation of Shark’s Fin and Sichuan Pepper, utilizing the framework of Translation as Adaptation and Selection. By evaluating the degree of multi-dimensional transformations, reader’s feedback, and translator quality in the existing Chinese version, the paper assesses eco-balance within the translated work, considering the hybrid nature of non-fiction literature and its linguistic, cultural, and communicative aspects. Based on the analysis, the paper suggests that translators should strive for comprehensive dimensional transformations, with emphasis on the communicative dimension, while considering other dimensions based on the content type (informative, literary, or hybrid). Additionally, constant attention to the target readership is essential throughout the translation process. These findings contribute to enhancing the quality of English-to-Chinese translations of non-fiction literature.