Analysis on the Meaning Loss of Tang Poetry in English Translation from the Perspective of Register Equivalence

DOI: 10.5176/2251-3566_L318.200

Authors: Shuying Song

Abstract: Based on Halliday’s register theory, this paper analyzes the meaning loss of Chinese Tang poetry in English translation from the perspective of register equivalence. The copra in this paper consist of Li Bai’s Song You Ren and Xu Yuanchong’s English translated version. Through the analysis of three register variables both in the original poem and in the English version, the author finds that, the non-equivalence of register between the source text (ST) and the target text (TT) is the key factor that causes the loss of meaning in translation. On one hand, language differences between ancient Chinese and modern English are the fundamental reason for the meaning loss. On another hand, the non-identity of situational context between ST and TT is another important consideration. In order to decrease the meaning loss in translation effectively, and to make sure the translated version can reproduce the original meaning, the author attempts to give some suggestions about the translation strategies and translation methods.

Keywords: register equivalence; register variables; the meaning loss; Chinese Tang poetry; English translation