Translator Trần Đình Hiến, a lifelong champion of Chinese literature, passed away on February 20, 2025, at the age of 92. His passing is a significant loss to the literary community, especially for those who cherished his translations.
A Life Dedicated to Translation
Born in 1933 in Đình Chu, Lập Thạch, Vĩnh Phúc, Trần Đình Hiến was more than just a talented translator; he was a distinguished scholar of Chinese language and culture. He spent time in diplomatic service in China and pursued postgraduate studies in Classical Chinese at Peking University.
Trần Đình Hiến
Beginning his translation career in the 1950s, he quickly established himself with his elegant and insightful renderings. He was particularly devoted to the works of Nobel laureate Chinese author, Mạc Ngôn. His translations, including Đàn hương hình, Báu vật của đời, and Cây tỏi nổi giận, significantly introduced Mạc Ngôn’s work to Vietnamese readers.
A Translation, a Testament to Insight and Devotion
Poet Mai Văn Phấn, a passionate admirer of Trần Đình Hiến’s work, shared, “The passing of translator Trần Đình Hiến is a profound loss… His translations opened a window to rich and diverse Chinese literature for Vietnamese readers.”
He was not merely a translator, but a meticulous scholar who deeply researched the cultural context of each work. To him, translation was a collaborative creative process demanding a profound understanding of culture and the meaning behind each word. He meticulously preserved the essence of the original while adapting it for a Vietnamese audience.
A Legacy Enduring in Vietnamese Literature
He tirelessly dedicated himself to his craft, maintaining a remarkable output of 30-40 pages per day until the very end. His translations not only illuminated Chinese literature for Vietnamese readers but also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to making classic works accessible.
Trần Đình Hiến’s passing leaves a considerable void in the Vietnamese translation community. However, his substantial legacy will continue to resonate with readers, paving new paths for Vietnamese literature to engage with Chinese literature.
Conclusion
Trần Đình Hiến was more than an accomplished translator; he was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to generations of literature enthusiasts. His passing is a profound loss, but his legacy will forever echo in the hearts of Vietnamese readers.
