Original artwork, not a still
I should as soon think of swimming across Charles River when I wish to go to Boston, as of reading all my books in originals when I have them rendered for me in my mother tongue.
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
The speaker compares reading everything in its original language with swimming across a river to reach Boston. Both are presented as unnecessary effort when an easier means is available. The comparison defends translations through a practical, deliberately exaggerated image of inconvenience.
Context reviewed
