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Amira had translated hundreds of documents for the court, but never one like this: a letter written by the defendant to his young daughter, entered as evidence.
The prosecutor wanted a literal translation. The defense lawyer wanted "the meaning." Amira knew that a single word in the letter could be rendered as "forgive me," "excuse me" or "I am sorry for what I could not prevent" — and that the jury might hear guilt or grief depending on her choice.
She stayed up past midnight, reading the letter in the original until the words blurred. In the end she wrote a literal version, as required, and added a translator’s note explaining the range of meanings, with no opinion about which one the man intended.
The next day, testifying, she felt the jury watching her as if she held the scale of justice in one hand. Perhaps, she thought, she did. Every translator does.
Worksheets › Grade 12 English › Reading Literature › Reading Literature
Free Grade 12 English worksheet (Common Core RL.11-12.1): read "The Translator’s Dilemma" and answer questions about key details, characters and theme. Skill: Key ideas and details in literature. Level: Grade 12 — also suits Year 13 (UK).
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It is designed for Grade 12 (ages 17–18), but use it with any child who is ready.
Key ideas and details in literature.
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