What is translation? (and what do I actually do?)
Translation is often mistaken for a simple exchange of words between languages. But it’s not that straightforward. In truth, translation is a subtle, intricate craft that blends precision with creativity. One of my favourite metaphors to illustrate this comes from Miguel de Cervantes, who compared translation to viewing the back of a tapestry.
While Cervantes was referring to Greek and Latin, the image applies beautifully to translation in general. From the front, a tapestry presents a smooth, polished picture. Flip it over, though, and you’ll find a tangle of threads, loops, and knots; the unseen work that holds the design together. Translation follows a similar path: the final text may read smoothly, but beneath the surface lie countless decisions about meaning, tone, and cultural context, all carefully woven together.
Just as a tapestry’s image is formed through its intricate backside, a translation transmits the essence of the original text into another language. But this process isn’t about creating an exact, word-for-word replica. Instead, it’s a reconstruction shaped by the rhythm and nuances of the target language. While accuracy and faithfulness are essential, true fidelity in translation goes beyond literal phrasing. It’s about capturing the spirit, tone, and intention of the original, even if that means reshaping phrases to resonate with a new audience.
What I do
I’m a freelance translator, editor, and language practitioner working in both English and Afrikaans. My main area of expertise is life sciences and pharmaceutical content, where precision is vital and every word has significance. I translate a range of medical materials (from clinical trial documentation and regulatory submissions to patient leaflets and package inserts) ensuring complex information is communicated clearly, accurately, and in line with industry requirements.
But my work isn’t limited to technical texts.
I also take on creative projects where style, tone, and emotional impact are key. Whether I’m working on marketing copy, website content, or narrative-driven projects, I focus on more than just accuracy. I make sure the translation resonates with the audience, evokes the right emotions, and feels culturally authentic.
In essence, my work is about building linguistic bridges. Whether I’m handling scientific material or shaping a brand’s story, I blend meticulous accuracy with creative sensitivity to ensure the message lands just as it should.
If you’re in need of a language professional who understands both the technical demands and the creative nuances of translation, I’d love to collaborate.