“We’re an American company, but many of our clients are Chinese,” the interviewer said. “We need someone who can accurately and effectively translate from English to Mandarin.”
“I speak fluent Mandarin,” the applicant said. “I am sure I can handle that kind of translation.”
“Knowing how to speak two languages is not the same as knowing how to translate,” interviewer said. “Being a translator is a special skill that professionals work hard to develop. Incorrect translations have the potential to cause significant damage. Financial markets may crumble and countries may go to war over mistranslated words or phrases. Are you prepared for such consequences if you screw up?”
“Thank you, but I’ll take a pass.”
(115 words)
Written for Sammi Cox’s Weekend Writing Prompt, where we are challenged to write a poem or piece of prose using the word “translation” in exactly 115 words.
Good one! 👍😊
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Thanks, Jen.
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It was GOOD! You’re welcome! 😊
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You did get the point across.
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This was pretty funny! 😁
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Sometimes you gotta know when it’s not a fit.
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I’m not gonna argue with that. 😉
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Very wise indeed!
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Lol. well now, I doubt I’d be prepared for such things either! He was right to take a pass!
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