The Reader-response Theory

Reader-response theory suggests that the meaning of a text is created through the reader's personal interpretation, rather than being fixed by the author. It emphasizes that each individual’s background, emotions, and experiences influence how they understand a story or poem. Essentially, a book isn't just what the author wrote; it's also shaped by what the reader brings to it. This approach highlights the active role of readers in making sense of literature and that different people can interpret the same text in various meaningful ways.