Studies on the translation effects of talk shows from the perspective of transcreation : a case study of The Daily Social Distancing Show with Trevor Noah

Abstract

The advancement of Internet and social media have facilitated the sharing and accessibility of cross-border cultural resources. As a result, there has been a rise in the number of fan translators on video channels and their works have garnered the public attention. This phenomenon has gained popularity with an increasing viewership to these translated videos. Therefore, it would be beneficial in exploring the translation mechanism involved in the production process. In this thesis, a fan translator and his translation of a talk show- The Daily Social Distancing Show with Trevor Noah was selected. Using transcreation as a perspective, this thesis aims to examine the manipulation of the creative translation methods, as well as further clarify the translation effects. A qualitative analysis was also conducted in the thesis. After a detailed analysis, it is concluded that four distinct translation methods, namely, using Chinese Internet buzzwords, purposeful misuse Chinese four-character expressions, neologism of Chinese ancient sayings and adding modal particles play a crucial role in triggering the desired show effects. All four methods are different from of simply translating surface meanings and help uplift the profile of the translated Chinese language. The translated text could meet the taste of younger audience living in the Internet culture. This provides a new perspective for translating such similar talk shows. Besides, it triggers other translation effects like presenting the evolving of the modern Chinese along the time and elevating the position of the translator. Therefore, it does transcend a conventional translation and provide a scope to study the current evolving fan translation.