Form without function: a reception-theoretic evaluation of LLM translations of classical Chinese poetry and its ethical implications

A study on Large Language Models (LLMs) used for translating classical Chinese poetry reveals that while LLMs can preserve the formal structures of poetic gaps, they frequently fail to retain the functional aspect of these gaps, which is to invite reader imagination. This indicates a limitation in LLMs' ability to translate nuanced artistic conception, despite their capacity for formal preservation.

This research highlights a fundamental limitation in current LLM capabilities, specifically their struggle with nuanced semantic and artistic interpretation despite formal accuracy. It signals a critical area for development for any organization leveraging AI for complex content generation, cultural preservation, or creative tasks where interpretative depth is paramount.

Classical Chinese poetry uses 'formal gaps' to create artistic conception and invite reader imagination, which are challenging to preserve in translation.

Forward consideration, not a verified fact.