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Can poetry written in a language different from the author's native language still maintain its original impact?

Margrett McKmurrie

Hey there,

Interesting question that you posed! As someone who is bilingual and passionate about poetry, I have often wondered the same thing. In my opinion, the answer is yes, absolutely! Poetry is such a powerful form of expression, and it has the ability to transcend any language barriers.

For starters, let's consider the fact that poetry is not just about the words being used, but also the emotions and thoughts conveyed through them. A skilled poet has the ability to write in a way that resonates with their audience, regardless of what language they are using. For example, a poem could be written in French, but still be able to move someone who only speaks English, simply because the emotions and messages being conveyed are universal.

Another way that poetry can maintain its original impact even when written in a different language is through the use of translation. While we all know that translations are never 100% accurate due to language nuances and cultural differences, they can still capture the essence of a piece of writing. The important thing is to find a translator who can truly capture the spirit and meaning of the poem, rather than simply translating the words themselves.

However, I will say that there is definitely something special about reading poetry in its original language. The way that a poet chooses to structure their sentences, use metaphor and symbol, and even vary their use of punctuation can all have a big impact on how the poem is received. That being said, I still believe that a good poem can be enjoyed and appreciated even when read in translation.

Ultimately, I think the impact of a poem comes down to the skill of the poet and the ability of the reader to connect with it. Whether or not the poet is using their native language doesn't necessarily matter as much as the ability to convey emotions and capture the essence of what they are trying to say.

I hope this helps answer your question! Let me know if you have any other thoughts or questions on the topic.

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