The article views the translation process as a literary text interpretation activity, taking into consideration some modern translation tendencies. The comparative approach by Paul van Tieghem aimed to source-target texts equivalency, and other translation studies theories (by K. Reiss, H. Vermeer, V. Komissarov, B. Ghiu) are also under consideration. The article focuses on translator’s impact on text interpretation and on the role of external factors in the translation process. The author emphasizes the importance of linguistic and literary aspect in historical context. Examples of inadequate translation are given.