Re:Show HN: Learn Chinese Through Novels
by sdrothrock on Wednesday December 24, 2014 @01:58AM
(#8791887)
> my suggestion is to go with novels that're translated into Chinese from English, like Sherlock Holmes. The translator uses good Chinese, and the stories are familiar, therefore you will have an easy time understanding the texts
Really? This seems counterintuitive unless China has a really, really good translation industry. In my experience with Japanese translations, you're as likely to get a good translation as you are to get a horrible one (see Harry Potter).
of course good translation is rare. The reason I recommended Sherlock is that it was translated back in 1980s, golden age of translation industry in China. after that, things went down quickly as those masters passed away.
Chinese novels are not easy for beginners, my suggestion is to go with novels that're translated into Chinese from English, like Sherlock Holmes. The translator uses good Chinese, and the stories are familiar, therefore you will have an easy time understanding the texts. After all, it's the language you are interested.
To be able to appreciate Chinese novels like a native, especially classic ones, you'll need years of study, starting from Chinese history, classic literature, ...