arromdee@inetnow.net writes:

<< On Wed, 20 Jan 1999, Matt Johnston wrote:

And, if you reveal a problem, it makes you sound more human if you also
offer a solution, like, say the proper spelling/pronunciation.

I suppose that's a fair enough request.  "Xian Pu" is a mistranslation
deliberately introduced by Richard Lawson, who was aware that it was a
mistranslation and probably didn't expect that he was creating an

everlasting

fanfic cliche.

This is true in that I wasn't aware this would become a fanfic standard,
although I have to admit I'm pleased that it has.  Yes, Xian Pu is a
deliberate mistranslation.  It's also a valid Chinese name, while "Shan Pu"
is not.  I decided to take the position that "Shan Pu" is the mistranslation
done by the Japanese characters of Ranma 1/2, and that Shampoo has a real,
valid Chinese name.  I consider it slightly more respectful; I just can't
see all of the Amazons naming themselves after American bathroom products.

Let me state that this is really taking a position contrary to the manga;
Shampoo's name is very clearly shown to be "Shan Pu".  To use anything else
is violating canon.

But I set out to deliberately violate canon, because this part of the canon
displeased me a little.  I myself just happen to think that "Xian Pu" is a
better and more respectful Chinese name.  Also, I think it important to
mention that I only had her call herself "Xian Pu" while speaking Chinese;
when she spoke in Japanese, she referred to herself as Shampoo.

This is all a matter of personal preference, of course.  I neither encourage
or discourage people from using "Xian Pu".  Do what you feel most
comfortable with; after all, that's what writing is all about.  :)

-Richard
-aka Lee Shard