A query on translation

[Cyrus]

Terrance wrote:

>I can't imagine a translator who lacks L1 proficiency (reading, writing,
>speaking, listening, creativity, etc. and so on) and excels at
>translation. 
>

True. But there are a lot lacking proficiency in both L1 and L2. How is 
that possible, you say? Simple -- publishing houses don't like to pay 
money. So, cheaper is better.
By the way, the translator who ruined Lolita is now quite famous and 
widely acclaimed over here.

Cyrus