Translation as a Form

The commentary delves into the complexities of Walter Benjamin's 1923 essay on translation, which is both captivating and perplexing for scholars. It explores Benjamin's counterintuitive claims without providing sufficient contextual background. The analysis connects his ideas to various literary and philosophical traditions, including Jewish mystical thought, Romantic esotericism, and modernist critiques of public communication. This exploration aims to clarify Benjamin's insights within a broader literary-historical framework, making it a valuable resource for understanding his work.