Cultural Diplomacy: by Kalpna Singh-Chitnis
How wonderful it would be to learn more about writers and poets from other parts of the world, mention them with great enthusiasm, study and quote them the way we are inclusive of the western writers in our interactions, cultural and literary exchanges, and shaping academic curriculums!
The above phenomenon has only provided partial knowledge of what we know as world literature today. This inclusivity has helped the East know much about the western world, but not vice versa. This gives rise to the question of why we have taken this approach and how we can compensate ourselves for the loss we can’t afford to ignore.
There is a great need for quality English translations to learn more about other countries’ literature and their literary heritage. Moreover, we need to have the translations not only in English but also in other languages.
It is essential to tell our stories and share the literature from our parts of the world to bring understandings of who we are as individuals, a nation, and a part of the greater world community.
This understanding is much needed than ever before to destroy popular myths, respect other nations’ cultural identities, languages and promote democratic values among nations. Moreover, this effort can be an aid to prevent crimes against humanity such as racial bias and hatred, communal disharmony, genocides, wars, cultural imperialism, etc.
When I say literature, it isn’t just poetry and stories, essays, and translations or research works; it is more. In the new age, we can not keep journalism out of any essential movement to seek changes. The articles, reports, speeches, and statements can also be categorized as literature and made available in as many languages as possible for anyone interested in reading them and sharing proper understandings with others.
Writers passionate about literary activism can contribute to this mission by helping translations in their own capacity or through a group effort in their respective countries. Even a small phrase can alter the world views and inspire revolutions for better societies.
We must not underestimate the power of translation which awakens curiosity and interest in reading literature from other languages. It helps cross the international boundaries, see the world from a larger perspective and relate to it as world citizens.
Let’s kickstart our literary activism by translating a piece of literature and sharing the message it carries with the world to engage in a creative dialogue and promote cultural diplomacy in its true essence.
Kalpna Singh-Chitnis is an Indian-American Poet, Filmmaker and Editor-in-Chief of Life and Legends. She is also the founder and president of the Silent River Film and Literary Society (a 501 C 3 Non-Profit), River Paw Press (USA), and a member of the United Nations Association of the USA.
Official Website: www.kalpnasinghchitnis.com Follow her @AccessKalpna
Excellent and meaningful ideas about literary activism, Kalpna. I endorse the sentiments expressed in your piece. Will be happy to contribute translations to your wonderful journal.
Dear Kalpna. Well-expressed. But I personally believe that this beginning to change. With the efforts of people like you, world literature is being proliferated. Thanks for sharing.
Although we aren’t quite there, things are undoubtedly changing for better. This is also happening because of the commitments of writers and translator like you. Thank you, dear Nizar Sartawi.
Within the translation the importance of the word giving the original and new understanding of the text. In translation there is so much to learn for the author, translator and reader. Who is the owner of the text? All of us.
Totally agree.
Congratulations Kalpana! Your brief write up brings a important point for discussion. In 21st century world has become a ‘Global village ‘ ! Fast means of communication and social media has contributed in big way for this change. Everybody is required to ave idea about art ,culture and literature of different parts of the world ! Translation plays a big role in tis process. Strangely translation is not being done by persons who are well versed in language and culture of both the languages for translation becomes transcreation when you see it in global context ! Many a time bad and inappropriate translation has destroyed the beauty of original writing ! I must congratulate you Kalpana for te great initiative! I would be happy to contribute if I am of any help! Thanks and take care@
Thank you so much for reading and emphasizing the need for good translations. We welcome your thoughts and proposals.