This book contains English translation of Punjabi poem book I published in 2022, titled "ਸ਼ਾਇਰ ਜੀ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਝੱਲੇ ਓ” meaning O Poet, You’re a Dunce. From the beginning, I knew this isn’t an easy undertaking. Translating poems from one language, Punjabi, to another, English, with different cultural backgrounds is particularly difficult for the following reasons: Cultural nuances: Punjabi language has its cultural nuances that can be difficult to translate. These nuances include idiomatic expressions, metaphors, and cultural references that may not make sense in English. Rhyme and meter: Punjabi, specifically Sufi verses, rely heavily on rhyme and meter, and it can be difficult to maintain these elements in translation while still preserving the original meaning of the poem in Punjabi. Connotation and denotation: Subtleties in words of Punjabi poetry can have different connotations and denotations in English. Syntax and grammar: Punjabi and English languages are vastly different when it comes to syntax and grammar. It can be challenging to convey the same meaning of Punjabi while adhering to the grammatical rules of English. Sound and rhythm: The sound and rhythm of a poem can be an essential part of its meaning and impact. Punjabi is very unique in that sense. Punjabi poetry has a rhythm that I hope I captured correctly. Historical and cultural context: Poems are often rooted in specific historical and cultural contexts. For example, Punjabi is predominantly spoken in Northern India and some parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan. These areas were the frontiers where most invaders entered India over centuries to exploit and plunder. Temporal nature of prosperity, because of frequent invaders, is integral part of Punjabi culture and language. Overall, translating a poem from one language to another with different cultural backgrounds requires a deep understanding of both languages and cultures. One should strive to strike a delicate balance between preserving the original meaning of the poem and making it accessible to readers in the target language. Unfortunately, I am neither trained nor do I possess deep understanding of either language: Punjabi and English. So, I advise my readers to take this into consideration. It is my humble effort at this, after all. Since India is a country of many languages and Hindi being a convenient common language, I’ve transliterated the verses into Hindi (हिंदी) also. My sincere hope is that more people get access to vast wisdom that is contained in Punjabi culture. I wish to thank my English speaking readers who are curious to learn about Punjabi poetry and Sufi thought. I hope this was worth your while and I hope you like it!
