1. Fidelity to the original text: This involves conveying the meaning, tone, and structure of the original poem as accurately as possible. It means respecting the author's choices in language, imagery, and rhythm.
2. Readability and naturalness in the target language: The translation should flow smoothly in the target language and be enjoyable to read. This can be challenging because poetic language often uses unique expressions, metaphors, and rhyme schemes that don't translate directly.
These two goals often clash. Maintaining absolute fidelity can sometimes result in a translation that sounds awkward or unnatural in the target language. Conversely, prioritizing readability might lead to sacrificing some of the original poem's nuances and meaning.
The art of translation lies in finding a balance between these two goals, making choices that best preserve the essence of the original work while ensuring the translation is accessible and enjoyable for the target audience.