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What is the difference between free and strict, literal translation? between free translation and outright adaptation?

Very often, readability. Strict translation usually makes for stiff English, or forced and un-english rhythms. Outright adaptation is perfectly valid if it makes a good, modern poem. Occasionally, an adaptation will translate the spirit of the original to better use than any other method: at other times, it will falsify the original beyond measure. Much depends upon the translator (also upon the reader).

PAUL BLACKBURN, “TRANSLATION (REPLIES TO A NEW YORK QUARTERLY QUESTIONNAIRE)” (1970)