Nachdichtung

Nachdichtung is a German term that translates to "after-creation" or "imitation." In literature and art, it refers to a work that is not an original creation but rather a rendition or adaptation of an existing work. This can take various forms, including translation, paraphrase, or even a new creation inspired by a prior work.

The concept of Nachdichtung often arises when a work is translated from one language to another, but the translation goes beyond a literal rendering to capture the spirit, style, and emotional impact of the original. It can also describe a poem that reworks or comments on another poem, or a musical composition that is based on a pre-existing melody or theme.

A key characteristic of Nachdichtung is that it acknowledges its source material. While it may introduce new interpretations or elements, it is not an attempt to pass itself off as entirely original. The value of Nachdichtung lies in its ability to reinterpret, revitalize, or make accessible an existing work to a new audience or in a new context. It can be seen as a dialogue between the artist and the source, a way of engaging with cultural heritage and artistic traditions. Examples can be found in Goethe's adaptations of Roman poetry or in modern reinterpretations of classic myths.