Nate Derr: The Man Behind the Translation
Nate Derr, a renowned translator working on a multitude of manga series including BLUE LOCK, Shaman King: The Super Star, and My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999, recently sat down for an exclusive interview with Mangamo CEO Spencer Knuttila to shed light on his translating process, thoughts on AI, and his deep love for the world of manga.
From Passion to Profession: Nate’s Journey into Translation
Nate revealed that his journey into manga translation began with a deep-rooted passion for Japanese culture. Having majored in Japanese in college and taught English in Japan for a year, Nate’s love for the medium of manga and anime ignited his desire to become a translator. Despite facing initial challenges in breaking into the industry, Nate’s perseverance paid off as he eventually found his way into a translating agency, marking the beginning of a successful career.
Translating with Heart: Nate’s Process and Views on AI
Delving into his translation process, Nate emphasized the importance of emotionally connecting with the characters to accurately convey their feelings in the dialogue. He views each line as a puzzle to be solved, ensuring that the essence and emotional depth of the original work are faithfully preserved. When discussing the role of AI in manga translation, Nate expressed skepticism, citing the complexity and nuanced nature of language and emotions in manga as elements that are challenging for AI to capture effectively.
Preserving the Human Touch: The Value of Human Translation
As the translation industry faces the looming threat of AI replacing human translators, Nate highlighted the irreplaceable value of human translation in maintaining the authenticity and emotional resonance of manga. He underscored the direct human connection that exists between the writer/artist, translator, and reader, emphasizing the vital role that human translators play in preserving the integrity and spirit of the original work.
In conclusion, Nate expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to connect with fans worldwide through his translations, sharing his hopes of inspiring and broadening the horizons of young readers through the captivating stories he brings to life. The interview provided a rare glimpse into the passion and dedication that drives Nate’s work as a translator, reaffirming the enduring importance of human touch in the art of manga translation.
