Exploring Cultural Meanings in the English Translation of Pantun in Tenggelamnya Kapal Van der Wijck

Abstract

This study investigates the representation of cultural meaning in the English translation of a Minangkabau pantun featured in Tenggelamnya Kapal Van der Wijck by Hamka. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, the research analyzes two pantun stanzas alongside their English translations. The data were collected through document analysis and examined using Newmark’s (1988) framework of cultural categories. The findings identify several cultural elements, including geographical references, agrarian imagery, and the culturally embedded concepts of kampung and merantau. The analysis indicates that while some cultural elements are retained in their original form, others are adapted to enhance accessibility and comprehension for target readers. Although certain cultural nuances are inevitably diminished during the translation process, the core themes of homesickness, separation, and emotional attachment to one’s homeland are effectively preserved in the translated text. Overall, the study underscores the significance of cultural competence in literary translation and highlights the challenges of conveying culturally embedded meanings across different linguistic and cultural contexts.