Interpreting Wars

 Interpreting Wars

     You always hear that the Nuremberg trials was a massive turning point for interpreters. They were using new technology and were having to interpret simultaneously, which is an immense amount of pressure. Those interpreters were truly put to the test and were creating history. What stood out to me is that I never took a second to realize the trauma that those interpreters endured. Not only hearing the awful war crimes that were committed, but for Peter Less having to interpret for the same criminals that caused the death of his entire family is absolutely horrific. I understand wanting to get justice, but the emotional toll that comes with that is unimaginable. Peter mentioned having to become a machine to maintain his composure and leaving his feelings at home, which is still accurate for interpreters today in some cases. Personally I would never put my life on the line to interpret for war, not only would I be risking my life but also my family's. It is so disheartening to know that interpreters are targeted more than soldiers. I see how they could be seen as traitors but at times you have to do what is best to make a change. 

             In Voice of the Victims, my heart breaks for Doud Hari having to witness his home, his         family, and his community being tortured and killed. You feel so helpless in that situation,         what can you do? It is not the first or last time that happens in the world which makes you         think why we are so cruel to each other. I applaud Hari for finding a way to document and         voice what was happening in Darfur. His situation is closely related to what happened a         few years ago when Russia invaded Ukraine and today with the current events in Gaza. You      never think something like that is going to happen to you, until it does. 

           One career I have always been very interested in under cover agents who are multilingual. It is extremely fascinating how they are tasked to overhear important conversations but not only that, they have to do so much research to understand what is being said in a sense of codes and slang as well. Every country is different, honestly every state or province varies from accents and terminology even if the language is the same. So it is very important to either familiarize yourself with the culture from that region or be a local to be "in the know."  I loved the quote "...they are expected to translate information not only at the level of "what does this say" but at the level of "what does this mean..." which summarizes the role of their job.  They truly have to analyze into depth what the true meaning is behind the statement. That takes some brains, not only to translate or interpret but to identify every hypothetical statement of what is actually being said. 

    In summary, this article has shown the importance of translating and journalism during war time. Each story teaches how interpreters impact our nation for the greater good even in unimaginable circumstances. They are truly such great attributes to our society.