LINGUACULTURAL ANALYSIS OF ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS OF CHILDREN'S SONGS BY BARPY ALYKULOV

Abstract

This article provides a linguacultural analysis of English translations of children's songs by Kyrgyz national poet Barpy Alykulov. The primary goal of the article is to identify the specifics of translating cultural and national traits, poetic imagery, and semiotic meanings of the original texts into English. The article examines the linguistic structure, rhythm, rhyme, imagery, and symbolism of children's folk songs using a comparative analysis method. The study employs comparative typological and linguacultural methods, comprehensively exploring the realities, symbols, and national character of the texts. Specifically, it analyzes the strategies used by translators when translating concepts related to Kyrgyz culture into English (e.g., nomadic lifestyle, attitude toward nature, traditional imagery) — adaptation, explanation, and semantic transformation. It is demonstrated that taking linguistic and cultural factors into account when translating children's poems is essential and that these factors directly influence the perception of the text. The results revealed that in some cases, the cultural meaning of the original is not fully preserved, and preference is given to functional equivalence. This phenomenon is observed, especially in the context of ensuring comprehensibility for children. It is also noted that preserving poetic form (coherence and rhythm) often conflicts with the accuracy of the content. The article argues that considering linguistic and cultural factors is one of the key conditions for improving the quality of literary translation. The results of the study contribute to the improvement of the practice of translating Kyrgyz children's poetry into English and the development of translation theory. The results of the study are recommended for use in the theory and practice of literary translation.