Meaning: The quote "The best thing on translation was said by Cervantes: translation is the other side of a tapestry" by Leonardo Sciascia, an Italian writer, encapsulates the complex and multifaceted nature of translation. The analogy of translation being the "other side of a tapestry" suggests that it is a process that involves uncovering and revealing the intricate and often hidden elements of a literary work. This quote highlights the challenges and nuances involved in the act of translation and prompts us to consider the intricate layers of meaning, cultural context, and linguistic nuances that are inherent to the translation process.

The comparison of translation to the "other side of a tapestry" evokes the image of a finely woven textile, with its front side displaying a beautiful and intricate design, while the back side, though not immediately visible, contains its own complexity and detail. Similarly, in translation, there is the surface meaning of the text, which is readily apparent, and the underlying layers of cultural, linguistic, and contextual intricacies that must be carefully woven together to convey the richness of the original work.

Cervantes, the renowned Spanish writer, is often credited with the idea that translation is akin to the other side of a tapestry. Miguel de Cervantes, best known for his novel "Don Quixote," recognized the challenges and complexities of translation during a time when the exchange of ideas and literary works across different languages and cultures was becoming increasingly prevalent. His insight into the nature of translation reflects an understanding of the intricate process of transferring not just words, but also the essence and spirit of a work from one language to another.

Leonardo Sciascia, the author of the quote, further emphasizes the profound nature of translation by attributing this insightful observation to Cervantes. As a writer known for his literary works that often delve into the complexities of language, culture, and society, Sciascia's citation of Cervantes' words serves to underscore the enduring relevance of this analogy in the realm of translation.

From a practical standpoint, the quote underscores the challenges that translators face when seeking to faithfully convey the meaning and nuances of a text from one language to another. It acknowledges that translation involves more than just finding equivalent words in another language; it requires a deep understanding of the cultural and historical context in which the original work was created. This process of delving into the intricacies of the original text and weaving them into a new linguistic and cultural context is akin to revealing the hidden complexities on the other side of a tapestry.

Furthermore, the quote speaks to the idea that a successful translation should not only convey the literal meaning of the original text, but also capture its essence, style, and emotional resonance. Just as the back of a tapestry holds the threads and structure that give shape to the visible image, a well-executed translation must preserve the underlying structure and artistry of the original work.

In conclusion, the quote by Leonardo Sciascia encapsulates the profound and nuanced nature of translation, emphasizing the intricate process of uncovering the hidden layers of meaning, culture, and context that lie beneath the surface of a literary work. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in the act of translation, urging translators to approach their work with the care and attention required to reveal the full richness of the original text.