Hermeneutics: theory of interpretation

     One overall opinion that I got from Gadamer’s article was that his understanding and application of hermeneutics is somewhat contradictory. He argues one point then seemingly disproves it in the next sentence. It attempts to suggest that there is no ultimate or definite answer. I found it a bit unnerving at first because I wanted some sort of final answer; however, upon further reflection it seems Gadamer believes interpretation is a matter of personal opinion. One particular quote that comes to mind, “the hermeneutically enlightened conscious seems to me to establish a higher truth in that it draws itself into its own reflection” (94). Prompting internal reflection within oneself is of course essential in interpretation. Gadamer focus in hermeneutics is incredibly difficult because so much personal reflection is present.
      In regards to Pettersson’s opinion that interpretation involves outer influences beyond oneself, one of the points that Gadamer made comes to mind. He explains, “‘Choosing’ one’s words in an appearance or effect created in communication when speaking is inhibited. ‘Free’ speaking flows forward in forgetfulness of oneself and in self-surrender to the subject matter made present in the medium of language. That is even true in the case of understanding written discourse…” (87). This excerpt juxtaposes the belief you describe as being held by Pettersson. Gadamer conversely explains that forgetting yourself is the only real way to interpret both written text and language.
      So many exterior and personal influences affect an individual’s interpretation. Although these two texts hold many contradictory opinions I think used together they explain two of the greatest influences types individuals undergo in interpreting. Gadamer explains the internal influences through hermeneutics and I would argue that Pettersson explicates adequately on the exterior influences.



Works Cited 
Gadamer, Hans-Georg. “Semantics and Hermeneutics.” The Scope of Hermeneutical Reflection. 1st Ed. Berkely and Los Angeles: University of California Press, 1977. 82-94. PDF from ENG 600: Seminar in Literary Theory online course. National University. Web. 7 Aug 2013. 



Pettersson, Torsten. “What is an Interpretation?” Types of Interpretation in the Aesthetic Disciplines. Staffan Carlshamre and Anders Pettersson, eds. 1st Ed. Montreal: McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2003. 32-51. PDF from ENG 600: Seminar in Literary Theory online course. National University. Web. 7 Aug 2013.