DEAF JAM BLOG VIDEO #1
The video clip poses a question regarding translation for ASL poetry. The clip opens with an excerpt from Doug Ridloff's piece, "ASL Knock Out (KO)." The structure of "ASL KO" is based on ABC stories in deaf culture where the structure follows the order of the alphabet and each letter represents a character or action. Doug is using a two character structure in "ASL KO." His body shifts indicate character number 1 or character number 2. "ASL KO" opens with Doug using the letter A hand shape to represent the "1st" opponent punching. The "2nd" opponent receives a punch by using the A hand shape again back towards his body. Next, you see, Doug using the letter B to represent the 2nd opponent's feet slipping backward. (Look carefully at how he uses the B to slip back). The letter C represents the 2nd opponent's eyes blurring. Letter D represents the "2nd" opponent bouncing back from the ropes. He uses the flat open palm of his second hand behind "D" and the palm represents the ropes. The letter E is the first opponent "dancing" in the ring. The letter G represents the sweat coming down the face of the 1st opponent. The letter H represents the "second" opponent falling down to the mat in slow motion.
The clip then goes into a discussion about translation. Let us know your thoughts!
