Translation as Metaphorical Mapping

Correspondence principles in translation theories and cross-domain mappings in the contemporary theory of metaphor both involve the manipulation of complex networks of meaning. In translating and metaphorizing, the mind discerns resemblances and incongruities, and creates new configurations of meaning. This book creates synergy between translation and metaphor by using metaphorical mappings to elaborate on James Holmes’ translation process model. Emphasis will be placed on mental text maps and the meta-textual operations that take place during correspondence. Drawing on the works of cognitive linguists and metaphor theorists, the structure and movement of human thought, including textual concept and conceptual blending, will be discussed. The expanded translation-process model can better articulate the complex cognitive processes that take place on the linguistic, literary and socio-cultural levels during translation. The book will also present a map analysis of the xiaoyaoyou metaphor in the Zhuangzi and examine its English translations using Zoltán Kövecses’ scope theory of metaphor.