Cultural transplantation and transformation: Metaphor translation of a dream of red mansions

Abstract

This article deals with metaphor translation of A Dream of Red Mansions by Cao Xueqin. To retain to the utmost extent the unique artistic devices and techniques, the flavor, the tone, and the cultural implications of the original, the first choice should be transplantation of images whenever possible, which can be regarded as cultural transplantation. For metaphors that may be entirely maimed through transplantation of images in translation owing to the vast distance between the two cultures and languages, cultural transformation, such as image substitution, explanatory notes or total abandonment of the figure of speech should be resorted to in order to make the meaning and function of the original metaphors accessible to the readers of the translated version. It is concluded that selection of a good translation for a metaphor depends on an overall consideration of all elements and on differentiating what is primary from what is secondary in the translator's endeavour to minimize losses of the original style and content.