Lost In Translation
Harshita Sharma
Emotions are a defining facet of the human condition, but the semantics of the words
used to describe them can be nuanced. The topic "Lost in Translation" explores the differences seen in languages while expressing emotions across different cultures. While English translations may convey the essence of emotions, the richness of contextual relevance in various languages cannot be fully captured through mere equivalence. Hence it is important to understand that language is not just a medium of communication but a major element in the formation of thought and how we can make people feel more understood and included in a multilingual and multicultural realm.
Hypothesis
“A picture is worth a thousand words”. This age-old adage couldn’t be more relevant than in our visual world of today. Even though words fail to express our emotions due to limitations in verbal language, when combined with visuals, it enables people to imagine, and grasp the contextual relevance and meaning of emotional expressions more comprehensively.
Beyond Words Card Game
As a solution to start a conversation about the barriers in verbal language, a card game called “Beyond Words” was developed that not only influences communication and interaction but also educates people about the emotions that exist in different cultures. The game is a collection of untranslatable words from around the world. The front side of each card is a conceptual visual depiction of the word written on the opposite side, players are expected to read between the lines and draw their interpretation from the visual cues to guess the meaning of the words. The game allows the player to extend their imagination into feeling emotions that may be unknown to them whilst learning a new word and an expression of emotion in a different language.
Game play
1. To get started, place the cards face down in the center of the playing area. Decide who will be the first player to draw a card, This player will be the "drawer" for the round. 2. The Drawer must hold the card in his/her hand with the visual facing towards the players and read out the word written at the back along with the place of origin. 3. Each player gets a chance to use their imagination to interpret the meaning through the visuals cues on the card. Remember to read between to lines! 4. Once all players have made their guesses, the drawer reveals the true meaning of the word written on the back of the card. 5. The player whose guess is closest to the true meaning wins the round and earns a point.The role of the drawer passes to the next player clockwise, and a new round begins. 6. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Front & back card design
Card Design
