POETRY

Do not agree with any of

Do not agree with any of you. Ahmad Karimi Hakkak and Hillman have done a much better job in translation of Forough. When we have not read much, we become easily impressionable. Read their translations first.

I met Shole at LA book festival

I had the good fortune of listening to Shole reading her poems (and also reading from Forough's Sin) at LA Book festival.

It was an absolute pleasure and her passion for poetry just shone throughout the presentation. I liked it so much that I even bought her book Sin (autographed by her!)

Since I have read most of my favorite poems in this book, I have to say that I disagree with the comments below about her translation.

Of course, it is almost impossible to catch the exact vibration and the exact rhythm of Forough's poetry in English (or any other poem written originally in Persian), but still I admire Shole's work. Shole is an excellent poet herself, and I think her translation of Forough's poetry is the best I have seen so far.

But if you are aware of a better translation, I would appreciate to let me know.

Thanks, Azarin

A couple of points

Poetix Jaan; 

Thank for the delicate attention.  Unfortunately, I disagree with you that in our culture criticism is not allowed.  As a matter of fact, I have seen more admiration of works of arts in the West than in our culture.  This said, however, I agree with you that this translation is flat.  Still, I do not forget that this is only a translation.  Specially, when it comes to translation of music and flow of words and depth of their meanings, translations of all levels are cripled indeed; and the translator is not to be blamed much for that, particularly in the field of peotry that deals with substantial amount of emmosion and feelings and music.  Perhaps, the solution, not the best solution or the last solution, for this grave shortcoming of translation of poetry is puting the meanings of the original work in a poetic form in the language to which the work is being translated.  And, so, I believe, perhaps, a person who is a poet in both languages can do a better job.  Where can you find such a person?  It is near impossible.  I can say it is Keemeeya, Brother.

I already know that

I already know that criticism is not allowed in our culture; we need to adore and admire, but this is exactly why I would like to comment on this translation despite possible disagreements with my view. The translation of these poems by Forough are very flat and lack the precise emotional punch and spirit that Farrokhzad offers in her words. If any one has read Forough's poems in original language and has the ability to capture the meaning (sometimes multiple meanings) drifting behind her words, they would know that this is the work of a translator whose familiarity with her poetry and Persian language is insufficient. Read more, translate IF you can would be my advice.

Excellent

How serene and proud flowed my life...

A beautiful and passionate translation of a gem of a poem. Shole Wolpe has done a remarkable job of these translations.