Opciones funcionales y soluciones técnicas en la traducción cantable de canciones del inglés al españolel caso de David Bowie

Abstract

This doctoral thesis aims to contribute to the theoretical-methodological study of the singable translation of songs of a subtype, balanced between both its literary and musical values, such as those of David Bowie. The thesis adapts translatological principles, both general (continuum between translation and adaptation; functionalism on three levels; descriptivism with reference to the original) and text type specific (poetic translation; prevalence of musical rhythm; logocentrism vs. musico-centrism; pragmatism; and acceptability with regards to musical-textual fit, which is the special focus of this thesis). Eleven original songs and fourteen cover versions are analyzed (structure; literary and musical features). As a result, an open classification of musical, accentual, and poetical adjustment resources is taken into consideration, and stylistic, semantic shifts and general translatological approaches are demonstrated. In conclusion, despite the inevitable alterations to the original values, the singable translation facilitates a direct, synchronous comprehension and enjoyment of them, and access to the originals.