Translation

In our June posts, we bring you stories from the Sino-Russian territory of our hearts.
Together, we speak imperfect Chinese and Russian. We spent many years learning these languages and, when the opportunities arose, lived abroad to immerse ourselves culturally. We share with you our most daunting translating experiences, when we interpreted under pressure, in very odd circumstances, with no net below.  

Translating Zappa in Moscow
Linda-Marie Barrett

When Diane and I talked about memorable translating scenarios, I recalled the time in Moscow when, in the company of two Soviets, one of them wielding a rifle and pointing it at me and my two American friends, I was asked to translate Frank Zappa.

Translating Baba
Diane Barrett

I am not fluent in Chinese.  I am not fluent in medical terminology, even in English.  Yet, I ended up translating in the operating room for my ex-father-in-law's urgent eye surgery.  He still loves me and I love him.  Keep this in mind.