The sweetheart factor: Tracing translation in Martin Crimp’s writing for theatre

Martin Crimp’s activity as a playwright includes the translation and adaptation of the theatrical works of other writers. This article considers how Crimp’s theoretical and practical engagement with translation is manifested in his writing for the stage. Crimp’s voice on and in translation is analysed: first, from the perspective of translation theory, in particular as it relates to Crimp’s discussions on translation and adaptation; and second, in a study of Crimp’s use of the word ‘sweetheart’ in his various writings, including his translations and adaptations of works by other playwrights. I conclude that Crimp’s authorial presence exists throughout his work, whether self-authored, translated or adapted, while simultaneously operating to recognize the plurality of voices within a translated text.