{'fraction_non_alphanumeric': 0.017498379779650033, 'fraction_numerical': 0.005184705119896306, 'mean_word_length': 5.892857142857143, 'pattern_counts': {'":': 0, '<': 0, '<?xml version=': 0, '>': 0, 'https://': 0, 'lorem ipsum': 0, 'www.': 0, 'xml': 0}, 'pii_count': 0, 'substrings_counts': 0, 'word_list_counts': {'cursed_substrings.json': 0, 'profanity_word_list.json': 0, 'sexual_word_list.json': 0, 'zh_pornsignals.json': 0}}
On Interpreting the Interpreter – Experiences of Language Practitioners Mediating for the TRC

Abstract This article considers the role of the interpreters at the hearings of the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in view of a topical question in translation studies. Referring to experiences of simultaneous translating interpreters, the paper highlights a number of characterising features of the interpretation processes at TRC hearings. The problem addressed here relates to how interpreters’ recollections can contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of the communicative process at TRC hearings and of recorded and transcribed interpretations of public events more generally. The paper draws on Pym (1988, 2003), emphasising the historiographical importance of recognising and understanding experiences of translators/interpreters. It analyses data on officially appointed TRC interpreters’ perceptions and recollections of their experience. It finds that these interpreters were not transparent ‘conduits’. They were often also ‘catalysts’ and cultural consultants who mediated between participants, and were personally affected. The conditions under which they worked virtually guaranteed a compromise on accuracy. TRC interpreting took place in exceptional circumstances that need to be recognised in order to properly understand why the official records are at times fraught. Interpreters’ histories give vital information on the mediation process and on the artefacts that remain after the process.