Who determines how we interpret the world of art around us?

 

Philosopher Roland Barthes believes it should be none other than ourselves. His 1967 essay "The Death of the Author" elaborates on the significance of the individual’s interpretations of a work over the intentions of the creator.

 

His essay has personally served as an eye-opening piece on literary criticism. Barthes manages to put the concept of separating the art from the artist into a much more broad and sophisticated lens. His timeless ideas have helped many people reach a conclusion about the true meaning of a work of art.

 

This video essay serves as an analysis of Barthes’ clever work and applies his words to multiple modern-day scenarios regarding the myth of a creator’s superiority.