Bicycle Analysis and Discourse Maintenance

Bicycle Analysis and Discourse Maintenance
Lorraine Leeson

"Some have claimed that an understanding of linguistics is not necessary for the interpreter. They compare the task of interpreting to that of riding a bicycle - they argue that you don't need to be able to take the bike apart to be able to ride it. But when difficulties ensue - when tyres get punctured, a repair kit is necessary and good old fashioned know-how is essential. This also applies to interpreting! But unlike the cyclist, the interpreter's repair kit often comes in the guise of pragmatic know how. "

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