Exploring Translation Strategies in Nursery Rhymes from Pinkfong YouTube Channel

Abstract

This study delves into the intricate process of translating nursery rhyme lyrics, focusing on the adaptation of various nursery rhymes. The aim is to unravel the translation strategies employed to convey the essence of the original lyrics within different linguistic and cultural contexts. Drawing on a qualitative approach, the analysis explores both strategic and non-strategic translation strategies. The findings reveal nuanced decisions made by translators in capturing the emotional depth, rhythmic patterns, and cultural nuances of the source texts, as well as adaptations to rhyme schemes and wordplay specific to nursery rhymes. These results showcase how translators creatively navigate linguistic and cultural challenges to preserve the accessibility, educational value, and enjoyment of nursery rhymes in the target language. Notably, the analysis of nursery rhymes highlights the unique translation strategies used to balance literal meaning with musicality, rhyme, paraphrase, and audience engagement key aspects. Additionally, the study sheds light on the unique challenges translators face in this genre, where factors such as rhyme, meter, and cultural relevance significantly influence the translation process. This study contributes to the understanding of the challenges and creative choices involved in translating nursery rhymes, particularly in the context of diverse cultural backgrounds.