Translation as subversion and subjugation: Sándor Petőfi’s “Liberty and Love” in China

This paper considers a rare yet meaningful case of poetry translation where one historically well-circulated piece becomes identified with native creation the change time. Upon introduction to revolutionizing China, renowned Hungarian poet Sándor Petőfi’s was celebrated as an exemplar patriotic verse and fervently accepted reacted resounding battle call. Efforts introduce poet’s works Chinese readers were pioneered by country’s progressive writers leading intellectuals time under auspices publishers. Since China embarked on its modernization journey, motive seeking historical relevance literary has been receding into background, resulting in dwindling zeal for revolution-themed works. most widely memorized “Liberty Love” started receive alternative interpretations that gradually undermined reading obscured genuine authorship, thus working subvert subjugate original. Drawing from documented sources published literature, presents various translations famous lines and, comparative analysis, seeks possible explanations sweeping preference more domesticated less faithful version. To account changes interpretation evaluation preferred translation, then explores linguistic factors may have played part shaping poem’s reception among readers. In summarizing major findings study, further reflects role language how it serve shape landscape world literature. focused analysis aims help demystify well-understood popularity Going beyond particularistic case, discussion offers implications weaving precious minoritized languages rich tapestry