Theory of Translation 1 Introduction

2.7 Methods of Translation 
Many translation theorists have classified translation in different ways. For instance, 
Catford distinguishes translation according to extent, level and ranks. Lefevere 
classifies translations according to the procedures adopted by the translator and so on. 
The inquiry into the types of translation is significant as it provides a comprehensive 
view of the nature of translation and problems involved therein. 
2.7.1 Andre Lefevere
Andre Lefevere gives an interesting account of the seven different methods of 
translation employed by English translators of Catullus’ 
poem 64
in 
Translating 
Poetry, Seven Strategies and a Blue Print
: 

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37 
1)
 
Phonemic translation
, which attempts to reproduce the SL sound in the TL 
while at the same time producing an acceptable paraphrase of the sense. It 
works well in translation of onomatopoeia, but sometimes the overall effect is 
clumsy and devoid of sense. 
2)
 
Literal translation
, where, the emphasis is on word-for-word translation. As 
a result, it may distort the sense and syntax of the original.
3)
 
Metrical translation
, where the emphasis is on metre. This method 
concentrates on one aspect of the SL text at the expense of the text as a whole. 
4)
 
Poetry into prose
: In this kind of translation, the distortion of the sense, 
communicative value and syntax of the SL text takes place; although not to the 
same extent as with the literal or metrical types of translation. 
5)
 
Rhymed translation
, where the translator ‘enters into a double bondage’ of 
metre and rhyme. Lefevere feels that the translation in this case is just a 
‘caricature’ of Catullus.