ABSTRACT

The borderline between diaries, autobiography and history on the one hand and fi ction on the other is fuzzy, as demonstrated in the previous chapter. Levefere points out that the distinction between ‘literary’ and ‘non-literary’ is unwarranted (Lefevere 1992: 9). We have shown throughout the course of this book how each and every genre and area of specialism requires translation that is stylish enough to represent the voice of the expert writer and convince the interested reader. The translator may write diagnoses and instructions, regulations for behaviour, inspirational thoughts on patriotism and narratives for the use of future generations. Any and all of these text types are potential ingredients of fi ction. The tipping point is when the author becomes involved in the act of imagination. It is only through the sparking of that vision beyond reality that the translator can fi nd the author’s voice. The narrative of real life becomes the fantasy, allegory or sheer escapism of fi ction. Creative writing is infused with all that pertains to life.