Is to observe the same as to interpret?

Question

Is to observe the same as to interpret?

Answer

Oh, no.brbrObservation is to collect data. Interpretation is what you do to make sense out of the data.brbrIf I observe a play for example, Im trying to follow the plot, the characterizations, and to scope out the technical aspects the lighting, set, costumes, makeup, etc..brbrIf I interpret a play, I try to derive all possible meanings from it. Some of those meanings might be personal and idiosyncratic, others might derive directly from the script and the performance.brbrFor example, when I watch quotAngels in America The Millenium Approachesquot by Tony Kushner at the Human Race Theater Company, Im observing that the set is remarkably designed and the crew does scene changes like clockwork the actors are remarkable in their rendition of their characters the story lines converge in intriguing ways.brbrAfter observation, I can interpret. The play has a decidedly prohomosexual, antirightwing sentiment. Its particularly tough on Mormons and on Roy Cohn. Theres an undercurrent of selfloathing in most of the characters. Theres a supernatural overlay that suggests that the author is a theist. And so forth.