A Study of English Translation of Metaphors in MAO TSE-TUNG POEMS from Relevance Theory

Abstract

Metaphors are not only commonly used in literature to captivate readers, but also serve broader pragmatic purposes. However, translating metaphors between languages and cultures faces challenges due to linguistic and cultural differences. This study analyses the English translation of metaphors in MAO TSE-TUNG’s Spring in a Pleasure Garden, The Long March and Pure Serene Music·Spiral Mountain, aiming to discuss the characteristics of metaphor translation in Xu Yuanchong’s translation, and find the difficulties in metaphor translation, so as to summarize metaphor translation strategies. It is found that Xu makes full use of the communicative views and contextual views of relevance theory, and employs a large number of literal, free and transformational translation skills. His works successfully reflect the literary image in MAO TSE-TUNG POEMS, spreading the great MAO TSE-TUNG Theory and the Long March spirit to the world.