[2732] in tlhIngan-Hol
Re: KSRP
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU)
Mon Jan 24 11:18:53 1994
Reply-To: "Klingon Language List" <tlhIngan-Hol@klingon.East.Sun.COM>
From: joyleaf@shale.vnet.net (Elfchief's Lifemate)
To: "Klingon Language List" <tlhIngan-Hol@klingon.East.Sun.COM>
Date: Mon, 24 Jan 1994 10:56:51 -0500 (EST)
In-Reply-To: <m0pNRad-0008hXC@idptv> from "David Barron" at Jan 21, 94 12:32:18
pm
Okay, so my messae about getting over my illness was wishful thinking. I
got mono. @whee. Anyway, apologies for this being so late, and probably
seeming odd now, but, here goes. These are the
Guidelines for the Klingon Shakespeare Restoration Project
-as put together by yours truly.
1) First things first. We intend to translate Shakespeare back into the
original Klingon. Meaning, if you haven't seen your personal favorite
mentioned, or the piece or passage you *really* want to work on, don't
get discouraged. Let me know what you're interested in, and we'll be more
than happy to get it done, either by you alone, or with help from other
interested parties.
2) Because we want to do them all, there is a sort of 'order' we should
produce them in, in order to stir up interest. These should, presumably,
be the more major of the works. _Hamlet_, _Macbeth_, _Romeo and Juliet_,
and _A Midsummer Night's Dream_. This last will prove to be especially
interesting I think.
3) This does *not* mean that the work you have all been doing on various
other works (_Henry V_, Sonnets, _Much Ado About Nothing_) or anything
else. As was said previously, all works will be done, so the work that
has already been done is greatly appreciated, and will be of great help
when those works are taken to press.
4) There are many, many, many (ad infinitum, ad nauseum) different
versions of Shakespeare, all of which use variations in words ranging
from the very small, to things which change whole meanings of passages.
(Point in case: There are two versions of Hamlet's desire to be made
'incorporeal'. "Oh, that this too, too sullied flesh.." and "Oh, that
this too, too solid flesh..." Two *very* different meanings) I am certain
at the moment, we are all using different versions. Finding a standard is
difficult. I suggest the Riverside Shakespeare, which is a hardbond
text-sytle edition, usually about $50US, simply because it is a
*complete* collection of works(including _The Jailer's Daughter_) and has
excellent history sections for each play. It also provides quite detailed
footnoting. However, I realize not everyone has access to this version
and/or the money to purchase it, so I am still searching for a 'standard'
version.
5) Once these works are translated, they *will* be performed. At
conventions, or even by groups of people sitting around coffee tables or
in basements, for fun. To this end, the translations must be as easily
read, understood, and 'performable' as possible. Qite often in
translation, we get bogged down with tryin to translate *directly*, word
for word, from one language to the other, when what is at heart is the
need to communicate the basic intent and meaning, and supply this is in
a way the new culture or rop of people hearing, reading, seeing, etc,can
understand. This is made doubly difficult when one realizes that simply
bringing Shakespeare far enough into the present in *English* so that the
general public is able to understand can be a chore in and of itself. So,
let's keep the translations to the ideas behind the words, not the words
themselves.
6) With the above, while a Klingonic meter would be interesting to
attempt, it seems to add more work, and would likely not be noticed by
the general public. I propose that the works should not be concerned with
meter or, even more so, rhyme. This will also add to the ease with which
it can then be performed.
7) Once a month, project reports will be written up and sent to me, with
accompanying text preferably. I will supply all those involved with this
project with my snail mail address and phone number so that I am more
easily reached. Email is always an option as well. In this manner, I know
what works are being done, which are accomplished, and who/what is ready
for the next new scene or monologue, or project. Project reports will
also be made once a month to Dr. Schoen to keep him abreast of the
situation.
8) Cooperation is a must, and greatly encouraged. It has already
happened, which is wonderful to see, and must continue. In this manner we
can all agree on words and turns of phrase that we will use as
'standards' for the project. Also, this will provide grammar help for
those who want, need, or desire it, provided that everyone is willing to
help where possible.
9) Criticism mst be as constructive as possible. Nothing good comes of
blowing someone else's work completely out of the water. If you feel you
can do a passage better, perhaps suggest workin with the person or make a
suggestion or two. I don't think I neeeded to say that, but just to be on
the safe side...
Hrm. Well, having said all of that, we're going to start with the beast
first. Yep, _Hamlet_. I know everyone and their brother is going to want
to do the 'To be or not to be' speech. This will be addressed, but for the
most part I will be assigning pieces to various members of the Project,
usually by act and scene, to break it down into manageable pieces. I ask
that all members please email me so that I can begin assigning, and if
any of you have already *done* a piece of the work, let me know asap.
I think that's it for now. Questions, comments, flames to
joyleaf@char.vnet.net.
-Walker
