There has been a growing buzz around the hashtag #whyxl8 on Twitter recently. On the verge of International Translation Day, Marta Stelmaszak started a conversation among linguist professionals which I think is worth an entire blogpost to reflect on.
Why do we translate?
Surely, everyone had different answers and opinions to the question. There are some who said that they translate because of their love of languages and cultures. Others mentioned the importance of translation as a factor that keeps the world moving. Sharing information or being a role player in intercultural communication were also popular answers.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to this: we translate out of love. Whether it is love for languages, words or communities, the passion for cultural exchange or opening new markets for companies, it all happens out of love. You won't be able to make it in this industry unless you truly love what you do.
To me, translation is all about helping and serving. It is no coincidence that translation & localization belongs to the service industry - we serve, we help, we contribute to something great, for a better cause.
As a born helper and giver, this is exactly what I mostly enjoy in my profession - being able to help. Whenever I translate a legal document from English to Hungarian, I help my fellow countrymen by giving them a chance to understand it correctly. Whenever I translate a tourist guide from Hungarian to German, I help German people to get to know my country better.
I sincerely believe that my attitude toward translation - the fact that I consider myself a helper - is what makes me humble and passionate about my work.
Why do you translate? Share your thoughts on Twitter #whyxl8
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