Here's why:
* No single "correct" interpretation: Unlike math problems, literary works don't have one right answer. Different readers bring their own backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, leading to a range of valid interpretations.
* Emphasis on evidence: While interpretations are subjective, they must be grounded in the text itself. Good interpretations use evidence from the story (characters, plot, setting, themes) to support their claims.
* Dialogue and debate: The subjectivity of interpretation makes literary analysis a dynamic process. Different readings can spark discussion, debate, and deeper understanding of the text.
Example: Consider the ending of "Hamlet". Some readers interpret Hamlet's death as a tragedy, while others see it as a form of justice. Both interpretations can be valid, but they must be supported with evidence from the play itself.
Therefore, an interpretation of literature is not merely a personal opinion, but a reasoned analysis that considers both the text and the reader's perspective.