Interpreter Breaks Down How Real-Time Translation Works | WIRED

Summary

The video script features a demonstration of bilateral interpreting between diplomats from Spanish and English-speaking countries, led by experienced interpreter Barry Slaughter Olsen. It explores the nuances of consecutive and simultaneous interpretation, the challenges of note-taking, and maintaining pacing. The script also addresses the interpreter's role in conveying emotional or rude messages faithfully, and the complexities of translating humor. The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of interpreters in facilitating international communication.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The video script discusses the role of interpreters in high-stakes diplomatic negotiations, highlighting the importance of accurate and nuanced communication between nations.
• 🗣️ Interpreters often work in bilateral settings, which are private, closed-door meetings with limited attendees and require a high level of discretion.
• 📋 The script introduces two main styles of interpretation: simultaneous and consecutive, with the latter being more common in diplomatic contexts.
• 📝 Interpreters use note-taking as a crucial tool to remember and convey long speeches accurately, developing personal shorthand and symbols to represent ideas.
• 🤫 The video demonstrates 'chuchotage', a form of simultaneous interpretation where the interpreter whispers the translation close to the listener's ear.
• 🔍 Interpreters must find an optimal pace, referred to as 'tempo' or 'ear-voice span', to maintain accuracy without being overwhelmed by the original speech.
• 💡 The script touches on the challenges interpreters face when dealing with emotional or rude speakers, emphasizing the need to remain neutral and faithful to the original message.
• 😂 Jokes and humor are particularly difficult to interpret due to cultural and linguistic differences, often resulting in lost meaning or the need for creative adaptation.
• 🤔 The video script also addresses the physical and mental demands of the interpreting profession, including the potential for fatigue and burnout.
• 🌟 Despite the challenges, the script concludes by emphasizing the vital role interpreters play in facilitating international communication and diplomacy.

Q & A

What is the role of interpreters in diplomatic negotiations?

Interpreters play a crucial role in diplomatic negotiations by facilitating communication between parties who speak different languages. They ensure that messages are accurately conveyed, which is vital for successful negotiations.

What is the difference between bilateral interpreting and interpreting in a public setting?

Bilateral interpreting occurs in private, closed-door meetings with a limited number of attendees, often sworn to secrecy. In contrast, public interpreting typically takes place in front of an audience, such as at the UN, where interpreters are in soundproof booths and may be seen in press photos.

What are the two main styles of interpretation mentioned in the script?

The two main styles of interpretation mentioned are simultaneous and consecutive. Simultaneous interpretation is done in real-time, often using earpieces and microphones, while consecutive interpretation involves waiting for the speaker to pause before translating.

Why do interpreters position themselves on the sidelines during public meetings?

Interpreters position themselves on the sidelines during public meetings so they can be easily cropped out of press photos, ensuring they do not become the center of attention.

What is the significance of note-taking in consecutive interpretation?

Note-taking is significant in consecutive interpretation because it allows interpreters to remember and accurately translate specific ideas when speakers go on for extended periods without pausing.

How do interpreters handle long speeches without pauses in consecutive interpretation?

Interpreters handle long speeches without pauses by relying on their note-taking skills to remember key points and ideas, then translating those ideas into the target language once the speaker pauses.

What is 'shushil' in the context of simultaneous interpretation?

In the context of simultaneous interpretation, 'shushil' refers to the technique of whispering the interpretation directly into the ear of the person needing it, without the use of earpieces and microphones.

Why do simultaneous interpreters switch out in intervals of 30 minutes or less?

Simultaneous interpreters switch out in intervals of 30 minutes or less to prevent fatigue and maintain the quality of their interpretations, as continuous interpreting for longer periods can lead to errors and burnout.

How should interpreters handle emotionally charged or rude statements during negotiations?

Interpreters should remain neutral and faithful to the message of the speaker, translating even emotionally charged or rude statements accurately without inserting their own emotions or opinions.

Why are jokes difficult to interpret in diplomatic negotiations?

Jokes are difficult to interpret because humor can be easily lost in translation due to language nuances, cultural differences, and the reliance on wordplay that may not have a direct equivalent in the target language.

What is the importance of interpreters in international relations?

Interpreters are essential in international relations as they enable communication between countries and peoples who speak different languages, facilitating understanding and cooperation on various global issues.