This is a fault incident to all those who presume to translate books of verse into another language. For, however much care they take and however much ability they employ, they can never equal the quality of the original.
In this quote from "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes, the author addresses the complexities and challenges of translating poetry. He suggests that no matter how skilled and diligent a translator may be, the essence and quality of the original text are inevitably lost in translation. This reflects a broader truth about the art of translation, particularly when it comes to the nuances and rhythms of poetic language.
Cervantes highlights the inherent limitations that translators face, emphasizing that the unique qualities of the original work cannot be fully replicated. Each language carries its own subtleties, cultural references, and emotional weight, which can be difficult, if not impossible, to convey in another language. This serves as a reminder of the richness of original literary works and the challenges involved in bringing them to new audiences.
