Retranslation and Culturemes: Searching for a “Dialogic Translation” of a Modern Chinese Classic

This chapter aims at reflecting and analysing the role of “culturemes” as both a hindrance and an asset in translating modern Chinese literature, through the case study of my recent re-translation of Lu Xun’s fiction and a brief compari- son with some previous renditions into both Italian and other European languages. Lu Xun 鲁迅 (1881-1936) is by large considered as a “modern classic” both in China and abroad. After an overview of the history, frequency and motivations of the translation of his works in Italy, I will reflect upon how the translator can ac- commodate the contradiction between meeting the readership and publisher’s ex- pectations and producing a piece of “dialogic translation”. The translated text should enhance cultural difference while respecting the linguistic norms of the re- ceiving culture and being readable for the average contemporary reader. In order to illustrate the translation strategy adopted, I will display a range of translation issues mainly related to the so-called “culturemes” or “rich points” – in Michael Agar’s words – which pose to the translator the challenge of «making sense out of human differences in terms of human similarities», of identifying and negotiating on what provides Lu Xun’s works with their unique value and flavour.