12.10.2007 08:55 - The Rigors of Translation
There are times when it is a little difficult explaining the modern English argot to my German workmates.
For example : "Ham-toucher".
Try translating that, if you will, into Hoch Deutsch. The nearest I could get was "Schinken grabscher".
This lead to a long and, frankly, peculiar explanation on why this is supposed to be insulting.
The nearest I got was explaining that anyone who enjoys the tactile experience of ham must be a bit perverted. This, for some strange reason, brought to mind a visual image of Donald Pleasence stroking a joint of ham.
Then I had to try and explain this mental image. In german.
No-one seems to want to sit next to me for some strange reason.
