In most modern instances, interpretation amounts to the philistine refusal to leave the work of art alone. Real art has the capacity to make us nervous. By reducing the work of art to its content and then interpreting that, one tames the work of art. Interpretation makes art manageable, conformable.

Summary

This quote criticizes the act of interpreting art, suggesting it is often a superficial approach that diminishes the power of the artwork. The author argues that interpretation can be seen as a philistine refusal to simply appreciate and allow the art to evoke emotions or discomfort in the viewer. By reducing art to its content and analyzing it, the author suggests that we tame the true essence of the artwork, making it more controllable and stifling its ability to challenge and provoke.

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