The Studious Translator, a pen-and-ink illustration inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s style, depicts a student immersed in the world of translation and localization at a University participating in the RWS Campus academic programme. Just as the Vitruvian Man embodies the ideal human proportions outlined by the Roman architect Vitruvius, this diligent student exemplifies the harmonious balance of linguistic mastery, cultural understanding, and technical acumen required for success in the field. The drawing showcases the student in two (hidden) overlapping positions—one representing the precision of translation within a square, and another showcasing the adaptability of localization within a circle. This intriguing illustration not only highlights the student’s dedication to comprehending essential concepts but also their aspiration to innovate and refine them. Although not the first to capture the essence of translation and localization, the Studious Translator gains iconic status as a symbol of the modern Renaissance in language and technology. It serves as a testament to the interdisciplinary nature of these fields, weaving together mathematics, linguistics, and art. The original drawing is carefully preserved in a climate-controlled archive at RWS Campus, exemplifying the programme’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of translation and localization professionals.
Category: Business
The elephant in my room…
The reaction I rarely see when discussing artificial intelligence with anyone is indifference. The reactions I usually see are split between overflowing enthusiasm and overflowing concern. I rarely have a conversation about them both. But after writing a few articles on how useful it is, and obviously I spend most of my time in the overflowing with enthusiasm camp, I wanted to address the elephant in the room.
What’s in a name?
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet.”
In Shakespeare’s soliloquy, Romeo and Juliet, Juliet isn’t allowed to be with Romeo because his family name is Montague… sworn enemies of the Capulet family. Of course she doesn’t care about his name, he’d still be everything she wanted irrespective of what he was called. The rose would still smell as sweet irrespective of what it was called. “Trados”, “SDL” and “RWS” have endured, or enjoyed, a feuding history as competitors in the same industry. Our names are our brand and now that they’re changing do we still smell as sweet? Sadly things don’t end well for poor Romeo and Juliet… but in our story we fare a little better!