How we read

When I read a story I put myself into. It's like a movie playing in my head. And for the most part I can see things from all characters' perspectives. I can easily understand the motives of the characters. But I don't always do well with interpreting the author's motives. My deep understanding of characters probably plays a huge role in how I interpret the text as a whole. Other people might read to find a meaning in the story. They see the characters as tools to get a point across. Because we read differently, we might get different meanings from the text.

Cultural, social and economic backgrounds also play a role in how we interpret a story. For example, my main take away from the story "Envy" is how not having a father around all the time effects a child (more specifically a young girl). But someone who may be from the area (or similar area) that the story takes place might see other important points in the story. Also someone from a different social class might understand the character's situation. They may feel sympathy but they cannot truly know what it's like for them in that situation. Also cultural background plays a role in certain situations. Most cultures have had significant events happen in the past. So when a story is written that is based on one of those events, someone from that culture would relate more to the story. They will find a different meaning than someone from another background.

I hope this makes sense. It's makes sense in my head but putting it in words on paper (or computer in this case) is a bit difficult. :)