Navigating Cultural Sensitivity in Translation: The Role of Interpersonal Communication in Translating Sensitive Narratives

This study examines the role of interpersonal communication and cultural sensitivity in shaping translation outcomes, focusing on Un Nègre A Violé Une Blonde À Dallas by Ramonu Sanusi, translated by Joel Akinwumi and Kehinde Makinde (2016). The objective is to analyze how translators balance fidelity to the original text by adapting it to the cultural sensibilities of the target audience, particularly regarding sensitive themes of race and violence. Through a comparative textual analysis of the original French text and its English translation, this study highlights shifts in meaning, cultural adaptation, and the impact of interpersonal dynamics between the author and translators. Interviews with translators and a framework for cultural sensitivity evaluation were employed to explore further how these dynamics influence translation decisions. The findings reveal that while maintaining fidelity to the original, the translators strategically adapted certain elements to prevent cultural misunderstandings, ensuring the narrative's accessibility to English-speaking audiences. The discussion highlights the translators' role as cultural mediators and suggests strategies for managing similar complex narratives in future translation projects. This research underscores the importance of open communication between authors and translators and calls for further exploration into diverse narratives where interpersonal communication plays a crucial role in translation accuracy and cultural adaptation.