The Challenges and Rewards of Translating Poetry: A Dialogue Between Translators

Różycki's epic poem 3

Twelve Stations and his translation of Stéphane Mallarmé's A Throw of the Dice had already established him as a leading Polish poet by that time. However, it took years before an American press agreed to publish his work, viewed as coming from a lesser-known language.

In 2007, Zephyr Press published Różycki's English-language debut, The Forgotten Keys, a collection of poems from his earlier works translated by Rosenthal. Meanwhile, Rosenthal's first poetry collection, The Local World, won the Wick Poetry Prize and was released in 2011. These debut releases prompted both poets to reconsider their future trajectories in writing and translation.

Through their collaboration, they explored themes of travel in their work and grappled with the intricacies of capturing meter and rhyme in translations. Rosenthal decided to translate Różycki's book Colonies, aiming to echo the unique musicality of his writing style, which also influenced her own subsequent collection, Territorial.

This interaction between writing and translating has highlighted the influence of external literary traditions on their creative processes, enhancing their understanding of their respective languages' strengths and limitations.

Both poets agree that poetry is inherently challenging, distilling complex experiences into a few evocative words. Różycki’s recent volume, To the Letter, translated by Rosenthal and published by Archipelago Books, emphasizes this struggle and the necessity for deep connection in a fragmented world. The urgency of this work, initially released in 2016 during turbulent political times in Poland, resonates even more profoundly today amidst global crises.

They note that translation not only serves as a bridge to other cultures but also allows for an intimate examination of their personal and communal histories. The echoes of the past, particularly in Różycki's regional roots and the historical disruptions affecting Polish identity, add layers of complexity to his poetry.

Both Rosenthal and Różycki face the inherent difficulties of ensuring that rhyme and rhythm are preserved in translation. Rosenthal acknowledges that while translations should sound fluid, they often encounter editorial reservations about the lyricism that rhyme can convey. Różycki highlights a similar struggle in ensuring that his metrical and musical poetry reaches English-speaking audiences.

Their partnership exemplifies the mutual influence they inspire in each other as artists while remaining distinct in their styles and themes. Rosenthal appreciates the profound insights gained through translating Różycki, enhancing her understanding of language and emotional nuance. Różycki describes translation as inherently pedagogical, providing an opportunity for deeper cultural appreciation.

Reflecting on their collaborative efforts, both highlight the joy and discovery that emerge from the translation process. As they ready Różycki's newest collection for publication, their shared experiences underscore the vital role that translation plays in enriching both their artistic expressions and the poetic landscape at large.