The purpose of this study is to apply the Translation Compensation Theory on a representative set of translated poems by Li Bai, as presented in Xu Yuanchong’s collection. The aim is to conduct an in-depth analysis and evaluation of the original poems and their interpreted versions from the perspective of Translation Compensation theory. Specifically, this research seeks to explore how the poetic essence has been retained and conveyed through translations, evaluate the literary merit of translation work along with its aesthetic value and impact on foreign readers’ perspective.
To achieve these objectives, we will first select a representative set of translated poems by Li Bai from Xu Yuanchong’s collection. We will then analyze each poem in terms of Translation Compensation Theory, paying attention to the descriptive gaps between different languages and how these gaps are bridged through compensation. This process will involve identifying areas where loss or gain of equivalent expressions occurs during translation and determining how supplementing and compensating can be employed to mitigate such losses.
Furthermore, we will conduct an evaluation of both the original poems and their interpreted versions to determine how effective they are in conveying Li Bai’s poetic essence. In particular, we will examine how well translators have managed to retain key elements such as imagery, metaphorical language, rhythm, and tone. We will also assess the literary merit of translation work based on its ability to capture the cultural nuances embedded within Li Bai’s poetry.
Lastly, we will deduce general conclusions about the effectiveness of translation processes while suggesting solutions for improvement. By doing so, we hope to contribute significantly to ongoing discussions around translation theories while providing practical insights into how best to approach translating works from one language into another.
In summary, this study seeks to employ Translation Compensation Theory as a theoretical framework for analyzing selected translated poems by Li Bai from Xu Yuanchong’s collection. Through an in-depth evaluation process that examines both original poems and interpreted versions from various angles, we aim to shed light on how well translators have managed to convey the poetic essence of Li Bai’s works. Ultimately, this research will contribute significantly to our understanding of translation theory and practice, providing valuable insights into how best to approach future translation endeavors.




