1 Introduction

This article introduces the challenges posed to translators by two distinctly styled letters in "Dream of the Red Chamber" and explores Hawkes' translation strategies and decision-making process in the English translation process. By analyzing Hawkes' translation manuscript, the study aims to reveal the generation trajectory of the English translation of these two letters, answer key questions such as challenges, specific issues, and coping strategies in letter translation, and provide a new perspective for understanding the translation generation mechanism of complex literary texts.

The translation and generation process of 2 Spring themed letters

In depth exploration of the translation and generation process of the invitation letter written by Tanchun to Baoyu in "Dream of the Red Chamber". This letter is known for its elegant writing, appropriate content, and clever structure, which poses a huge challenge for translators. Hawkes demonstrated a profound understanding and meticulous handling of the original text during the translation process. He divided the translation work into three stages: constructing the translation draft, understanding the difficulties of the original text, and revising the initial translation draft.

The translation and generation process of Jia Yun's letterhead

Analyzed the translation and generation process of Jia Yun's letter in "Dream of the Red Chamber". Jia Yun's letterhead and Tanchun's letterhead form a contrast between elegance and vulgarity. Hawkes considered this stylistic difference when translating and ultimately determined that the translation style of Jia Yun's letterhead should highlight "vulgarity". Hawkes' understanding of Jia Yun's letterhead was relatively smooth during the translation process, with only two markings made: one marked "antecedent" in red, and the other translated "gardener" as "nurserymen". During the revision phase, Hawkes made relatively few changes to the initial draft, mainly involving three areas: adjusting the expression, modifying the translation of 'Haitang', and deleting some conjunctions and adverbs to make the translation more concise and in line with the identity and tone of the writer.

4 Conclusion

In depth analysis of the translation and generation process of two letters in "Dream of the Red Chamber" reveals the impact of the complexity of the original text on the difficulty of translation, Hawkes' unique three-stage translation model, and the characteristics of translation decisions being influenced by multiple factors. Hawkes' continuous revision of the translation during the publishing stage reflects his pursuit of excellence in details and overall style. This study provides a new methodological perspective for translation studies, and future research can further explore Hawkes' strategies and methods in translating other chapters of 'Dream of the Red Chamber'.