What does it mean to interpret a text?

Interpreting a text involves providing an analysis that conveys deeper meaning and insights about the content, themes, and implications of the material. This process requires an understanding of the text beyond just its surface-level details. When one interprets a text, they engage with the author's intentions, the context of the work, and the various interpretations it might foster among different readers.

Choosing to give reasons through an explanation means delving into the nuances of the text, offering analytical thoughts about its construction, language, and relevance. This approach encourages a thoughtful exploration that can illuminate the various aspects of the text, fostering a richer comprehension of its significance.

Summarizing the text would mean merely restating its main points without engaging in analysis. Memorizing focuses solely on recall rather than understanding, and critiquing extends into evaluation, which may involve judgment on quality rather than the act of interpretation itself. Overall, interpretation incorporates explanation, making it a more complex and insightful engagement with the text.