The Netflix adaptation of “The Three-Body Problem” has sparked discussions about the challenges of translating Chinese science fiction for a global audience. The series, based on the bestselling trilogy by Chinese author Liu Cixin, features a thrilling narrative where scientists race to solve an interstellar mystery spanning decades. One striking moment in the show has highlighted the complexities of cultural translation.
In episode six, a character declares the extraterrestrial threat posed to Earth, referring to the aliens as “Santi.” This term, meaning “Trisolarans” in the original Chinese, was coined by translator Ken Liu to distinguish the inhabitants of the fictional planet Trisolaris. However, for some viewers, hearing “Santi” in the show felt hollow and disconnected from its linguistic roots. It raised questions about the challenges of translating cultural elements, such as ancient myths, philosophies, and the nuanced zeitgeist of contemporary China.
Translators often face difficult choices when bringing Chinese terminology into English texts. Some opt to keep Chinese words, allowing readers to infer meanings from context. Others advocate for de-italicizing Chinese terms to normalize their inclusion in the global language.
Translating cultural nuances
In the case of “The Three-Body Problem,” keeping the word “Santi” could be seen as a tribute to the original Chinese books or as a way to add exoticism. The series, set in Britain with a predominantly non-Chinese cast, faces questions about cultural authenticity and representation.
Chinese audiences seek more than a superficial nod to authenticity. There is a wealth of Chinese culture yet to be excavated and presented on the global stage. The adaptation of “The Three-Body Problem” illustrates not just a linguistic translation but the deeper, more challenging cultural translation that continues to evolve.
Despite these challenges, the series has been praised for its sophisticated fusion of science fiction and historical fiction. It anchors its plot in real historical events, such as China’s Cultural Revolution, while exploring advanced scientific concepts like the three-body problem in physics. The show’s characters navigate personal strife and existential threats posed by extraterrestrial contact, becoming vessels through which profound questions about humanity’s place in the universe are explored.
The narrative balances intricate scientific details with moments of profound human emotion, creating a thought-provoking and thrilling story. As discussions continue about the adaptation of “The Three-Body Problem,” it serves as a testament to the literary potential of science fiction and the ongoing challenges of culturally sensitive translation in an increasingly interconnected world.
