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Russian to English translations [PRO] Art/Literary - Poetry & Literature
Russian term or phrase:красиво жить не запретишь
a common wisdom familiar to most Russian/Soviet people. I just want to explain in a concise and expressive form to a U.S. audience what we mean by that.
I do not usually join the majority but this is a clear case. Judith has also provided an equivalent to another illustrous Russian movie quote (хорошо сидим) -- 2 in 1!
My final version is closer to the original wording:
comes from the metaphysical ruminations of Frank Herbet, who, for all his doubtless virtues and devotional steadiness, was totally devoid of any sense of humour. Krasivo zhit' is, in a way, the opposite to what was the original meaning of living well: it's living it up. Most of the time the entire process involved is ugly rather than beautiful... What's happenning to MY sense of humour... I'm waxing didactic! Better go have a caviar sandwich and a flute of Dom... krasivo zhit' ne zapretish!
Выражение стало популярным после выхода фильма «Красиво жить не запретишь» (1983), снятого режиссером А. Васильевым по сценарию Валентина Константиновича Черныха (р.1935).
Используется как иронический комментарий к образу жизни, манерам и т. д. людей, которые полагают, что они живут «красиво» и весьма этим гордятся.
This is ingenious! I have completely forgoten this expression and I should have remembered it, since it was used by Bill Cosby in his yesterday's show here in DC!
Agree absolutely. I didn't mean that the phrase is exlusively used by the people who are unaccountable wealthy. Tevah_Trans: Maybe you should post your suggestion about "flaunting your wealth". It makes sense and fits the context. IMHO
I don't believe this phrase only applies to those who can't account for the source of their wealth. I believe it applies to anyone who flaunts their wealth - especially in the face of those who can't afford the same habits. Imho, of course.
