An alternative explanation for translation variations inSix Chapters of a Floating Lifeby Lin Yutang

Lin Yutang's once much extolled rendition of Fu Sheng Liu Ji (Six Chapters of a Floating Life) has been criticized recently for discrepancies between the translated text and the original. Lin's views of translation, Lefevere's framework of control factors that influence translation strategy and Skopos theory are presented to justify Lin's variations. It is argued that such translation variations are not due to Lin's incompetence or negligence but to his purposeful translation choice. The significance of the translator's preface is highlighted as it offers clues to the reasons behind the translation strategies adopted.