Renowned Tamil writer and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Salma, recently articulated a powerful truth about literature: while the act of writing is about creation, translation breathes new life into these creations, allowing them to resonate in different tongues.
Her reflections came during an insightful conversation with journalist and translator Kavitha Muralitharan, held at The Hindu office in Chennai.
Salma delved into the inherent complexities of translation, noting that Tamil’s distinctive phonetic qualities, intricate idioms, and regional dialects present considerable obstacles for translators. She emphasized that certain cultural elements and poetic metaphors often resist direct transference. Yet, she remains confident that the core of her narratives, which bravely illuminate the experiences and challenges faced by Muslim women—a viewpoint frequently marginalized in conventional literary circles—successfully reaches global audiences.
Initially, Salma encountered significant backlash and apprehension following the publication of her early writings, which fearlessly addressed female desire. This criticism was particularly strong from conservative factions within her own community. However, she found solace and strength in the process of translation, seeing it as a vital bridge that allowed her powerful voice to reach a much wider readership through versions in Malayalam, English, and various other languages.
At the heart of Salma’s journey as an author lies the intricate interplay between original creation and translated interpretation. She profoundly stated, “Translation is far more than a simple transfer of words; each translator imbues the work with their unique emotions and insights. Consequently, every translated edition develops its own distinct voice, profoundly shaped by the translator’s linguistic mastery and personal connection to the text.”
“While I can discern my own essence in the translated versions,” Salma continued, “translators are, in fact, writers in their own right, often exerting even greater effort. Their individual perspectives, emotional resonance, and profound command of language are absolutely crucial in shaping the final, impactful rendition of the work.”
Despite the vehement opposition and criticism she faced from conservative groups for her groundbreaking debut novel, Irandaam Jaamangalin Kadhai—now released in its second English translation as The Dark Hours of the Night—Salma expressed that her initial apprehension about publishing the book dissipated. This was largely due to the translations expanding her reach, enabling her narrative to touch hearts and minds far beyond Tamil Nadu’s borders.
Currently, Salma is immersed in crafting a sequel to Irandaam Jaamangalin Kadhai, alongside preparing several new novellas for publication.
(This enlightening discussion was a part of The Hindu’s acclaimed ‘Out of Print’ series, dedicated to celebrating prominent writers and their works.)