Is Translation Always Transfer? Challenging the Dominant Conceptual Metaphor in African Bible Translation Training

Abstract

This paper considers the conceptualization of translation in Katharine Barnwell’s Bible Translation: An Introductory Course in Translation Principles, a popular textbook for Bible translation training programs in Africa. The recurring conceptual metaphors in this text are identified, and the metaphor TRANSLATION IS TRANSFER is analyzed. This research stems from the need to develop African Bible translators who conceptualize translation using concepts (metaphors) in their languages that are indicative of what activity they embark on in translation work. Reading through some of the training materials in use on the continent (specifically Anglophone), there seem to be relatively few that have explored the conceptual tools used by indigenous Africans to think and talk about translation. There is thus a need to investigate the conceptual metaphors used by Africans in their various cultures to conceptualize translation. The implications of this research appeal to trainers of translators to rethink not just the methodological approach to Bible translation programs in Africa but also the contents of course materials.