Is There a Single Right Interpretation? - Peter Lamarque (2002) - [I]t would be a mistake to give up the truth-seeking aspiration of interpretation altogether

Extract

[...] The statement by Peter Lamarque about the importance of truth-seeking in interpretation raises important questions about the nature of truth, the role of subjectivity, and the complexities of literary analysis. While truth-seeking in interpretation has its merits, including promoting a deeper understanding of the author's intent, fostering critical thinking, and facilitating meaningful dialogue, it also has limitations due to the subjective nature of interpretation, the complexities of language, and the diverse contextual factors that shape the meaning of a work. [...]

[...] In his essay, Lamarque argues that giving up the truth-seeking aspiration of interpretation altogether would be a mistake. He suggests that while it may be challenging to arrive at a single truth in interpretation, it is still important to strive for a rigorous and informed approach to understanding the intended meaning of a literary work. This viewpoint is supported by various documents and scholarly discourse in the field of literary studies. One of the key arguments in favor of truth-seeking in interpretation is that it allows readers to engage with the author's original intent and appreciate the complexities of a literary work. [...]

[...] Readers bring their own perspectives, beliefs, and emotions to the act of interpretation, which can influence their understanding of the text. Different readers may have different interpretations based on their individual perspectives and experiences, and this subjectivity can make arriving at a single truth challenging. Furthermore, the idea of authorial intent as the ultimate truth of a literary work has also been critiqued. Some scholars argue that the author's intention may not always be clear or may change over time, and that the meaning of a work should not be solely determined by the author's original intent. [...]

[...] It is essential to acknowledge these complexities and recognize the value of diverse interpretations, while still valuing the pursuit of truth-seeking in interpretation as an essential aspect of scholarly inquiry. Ultimately, the meaning of a literary work is a complex interplay of various factors, including the author's intent, the reader's perspective, the cultural and historical context, and the nature of language itself. Embracing the multiplicity of interpretations and recognizing the subjective and diverse nature of meaning-making in literary analysis can enrich our understanding of literature and contribute to a more nuanced appreciation of its complexities. [...]

[...] However, just like in literary interpretation, the idea of original intent in legal interpretation has been subject to criticism. Critics argue that the original intent of lawmakers may not always be clear or may be difficult to discern, and that the meaning of legal texts should be interpreted in light of contemporary values, social changes, and evolving legal principles. This approach aligns with the idea of reader-response theory in literary interpretation, which emphasizes the role of the reader in constructing the meaning of a text. [...]