Self-Translation in Contemporary Indigenous Literatures in Mexico

Abstract

The chapter provides a panoramic overview of self-translation from and into Indigenous languages among contemporary Mexican writers, in which the link between self-translation and language maintenance is closely explored. These authors often consider their decision to write in or translate into their native language as part of a broader effort to preserve their cultural and linguistic heritage. Since the conditions of the publishing market indicate these writers’ works would not otherwise be published, this language choice necessary entails self-translation. The study examines the use of this practice among authors with different linguistic backgrounds, such as Zapotec poets Natalia Toledo Paz and Irma Pineda Santiago, and Maya-Yucatec poet Briceida Cuevas Cob. It also discusses how their bilingual works are translated into other languages and what role this process can play in preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages.