Good post Jen!
I think you got the point. I would love to elaborate on these differences. As you stated an interpreter “translates orally”, which is correct. Our role though goes way beyond just a mere translation however. Not this: according to the manual, “an interpreter explains the meaning of – an interpreter is one who presents something spoken in understandable terms.” Of course, this does not mean we can adulterate the original message by adding or omitting to the original message. Another point to consider: interpreters need to convey not only the spoken message but also the feelings and emotions behind the words. This is a challenge – let’s demonstrate it in this way: I am sure you have all been to the doctors. Imagine you were with a physician and a “Mrs. Perez.” The doctor asks the patient how she is as he continues typing on his computer. With tears in her eyes, the patient responds, “I’m fine” (Estoy bien). How would you interpret that as an interpreter? To be a true conduit (a role you will learn about next week), you need to give the physician the whole and complete picture of what was said. You would need to convey not just the content “I am fine”, but along with the emotion that was behind the scenes…THAT IS A CHALLENGE!
Question for the class: how would you give the words, “I’m fine” the emotional color necessary to impart to the provider the way it was said? This expression, “I’m fine” can be said in a wide array of manners…from happy to sleepy, to sad, to sarcastic… How do we deal with these varying feelings and emotions in the way we interpret them?
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