Who translated “I love you as the moon is beautiful”? This question often piques the curiosity of language enthusiasts and poetry lovers alike. The translation of this famous line from Chinese to English has been a subject of much debate and admiration over the years. This article delves into the fascinating story behind this translation and the poet who inspired it.
The line “I love you as the moon is beautiful” is a translation of the Chinese poem “我爱你，如同爱月之美”，which is a verse from the collection “Love Poems” by the renowned Chinese poet Xu Zhimo. Xu Zhimo, born in 1898, was a prominent figure in the May Fourth Movement and is celebrated for his romantic and lyrical poetry. His work has had a profound impact on Chinese literature and continues to captivate readers to this day.
The translation of “I love you as the moon is beautiful” from Chinese to English has been attributed to various translators over the years. One of the most famous translations was done by the American poet and translator Arthur Waley. Waley, who was deeply interested in Chinese literature, translated the poem in the early 20th century. His translation reads: “I love you as the moon loves the sea.”
Another notable translation was done by the Chinese-American poet and translator John Balcom. Balcom’s translation reads: “I love you as the moon loves the night.” Both translations have their own unique charm and have been cherished by readers around the world.
The beauty of these translations lies in their ability to capture the essence of the original Chinese poem. The line “我爱你，如同爱月之美” beautifully conveys the profound and enduring love that the poet feels for someone, comparing it to the timeless beauty of the moon. The translations by Waley and Balcom manage to convey this sentiment in English while maintaining the poetic rhythm and imagery of the original.
The story of who translated “I love you as the moon is beautiful” highlights the power of language and the beauty of poetry. It demonstrates how translations can bridge cultural gaps and allow people from different backgrounds to appreciate the same piece of art. Whether it’s Arthur Waley’s translation or John Balcom’s rendition, the line continues to resonate with readers and inspire new translations, proving that love, like the moon, is a universal language that transcends time and place.
