Abstrakt
Karol Strmeň (1921-1994) was an eminent Slovak poet and translator from over 20 languages. However, due to his exile in the US after 1945, many of his works remain relatively unknown. This article focuses on a little-known translation of the 1954 New Testament, which served the community of Slovak emigrants in the US. Strmeň, who studied theology and translated great classical works of literature, thoroughly prepared the New Testament as an understandable translation for the recipients. Occasionally, he followed the previous translations of Donoval and Zlatoš-Šurjanský.
He applied his expertise in stylistics, avoiding literal translations of Latin constructions and incorporating Slovak idioms. Notably, he often utilized synonyms, especially in 'verba dicendi' to introduce direct speech, allowing a better expression of the biblical plot and the characters' statements. Being a skilled dramatist, Strmeň conscientiously translated dialogical passages in the New Testament, using exclamation marks for emphasis. Moreover, he occasionally employed poetic expressions, emphasizing the aesthetic value of the text and translating fragments of hymnic passages in the New Testament rhythmically.
Towards the article's conclusion, there is a brief reflection on Slovak Catholic priests and poets who have undertaken the task of translating the Bible, including Ján Donoval, Karol Strmeň, and Ján Švec-Slavkovjan.