TRANSLATING THE UNSAYABLE: EXPLORING TRANSLATION POETRY AS A LITERARY GENRE

This paper examines translation poetry as a distinct literary genre, considering how it functions at the intersection of original poetic creation and cross-linguistic mediation. The multiple challenges posed by poetry translation—its attention to sound, rhythm, imagery, culture-specific meaning, and aesthetic form—are surveyed alongside theoretical frameworks from translation studies and poetics. Key issues such as translatability, fidelity versus creativity, form vs. content, and the translator’s role as creative agent are analysed. The discussion then situates translation poetry within the broader field of literary genres: how it both inherits features of poetry and translation, yet acquires its own distinct identity. Examples and case studies illustrate the methodological and aesthetic decisions translators make, and how these decisions shape reception in target cultures. The paper argues that translation poetry cannot simply be treated as secondary to original poetry or as derivative translation, but must be recognised as a hybrid, generative literary form with its own stakes. It concludes by reflecting on the implications for literary criticism, translator practice, and cross-cultural literary exchange.