MAYA ANGELA SMITH

Professor, Department of French and Italian Studies, and,

Associate Dean for Equity, Justice, and Inclusion, University of Washington

Wednesday, March 19 2025, 12 PM – 1 PM PST

Join Zoom Meeting

https://berkeley.zoom.us/j/99834278006?pwd=1jqnQYvsAxywLx8bMDmqonfXy6KVBI.1

Meeting ID: 998 3427 8006           Passcode: 133932

Analyzing Rod McKuen’s and Shirley Bassey’s “If You Go Away,” this presentation explores the complexities inherent in translating song lyrics, as the process involves recreating not only the original text’s meaning but its emotions for a new audience. For many, the English version, while memorable, does not match the heart-rending sentiment of Brel’s original. The shift from “don’t leave me” to “if you go away” raises questions about the goals of translation. Bilingual listeners often find the emotional resonance of the French version superior. However, since Bassey’s performance aligns with the emotional impact of McKuen’s lyrics, successfully using Anglophone pop conventions to convey a Hollywoodized version of lost love, the song has been well received by Anglophone audiences. Despite possible affective limitations, translation allows the song to reach diverse audiences and profoundly impact listeners.