As a mode of thinking, metaphors are pervasive in our language. Based on the concept integration theory, this paper analyzes construction, interpretation and translation of thematic metaphors related to red sorghum, and unveils the dynamic interpretation mechanism of red-sorghum thematic metaphors. It is found that four translation strategies are used for metaphor translation in Howard Goldblatt’s version, namely preserving the source domain and the target domain, replacing the source domain and/or the target domain, explanatory translation and omission. Translators should not only be aware of the linguistic and cultural differences, but also enhance their ability to recognize, interpret and reconstruct the metaphorical mechanism. Hopefully, by revealing the construction mechanism and translation strategies of metaphors, this paper provides references for translation of metaphors in Chinese literary works, thereby contributing to the strategy of “Chinese culture going global”.