Jules John

Media should be described as to how it relates to you. I think it is too easy to fall into the trap over over analysis and strange extrapolation. Symbolism, metaphor and subtlety undoubtedly play a role in creative expression, but I think it is far more important to understand a work of art how it applies to yourself.

The perfect understanding of a piece of media is one where the individual understands the creators worldview, their upbringing and inspiration the could collectively culminate in their ability to produce a product that is representative of their own unique existence. Almost oppositional, the individual consuming said media is able to see how that piece fits into their own personal context. The writer shouldn’t have the final say.

I don’t think creators should be frightened of the prospect that their work will develop a life of its own. Infact, I think they should relish it. Creators should relish in the ambiguity of their narratives, welcome change at whatever chance they can. A perfect and recent example of this is Nicolas Winding-Refn praising the complete soundtrack overhaul of his film Drive; a film with an immensely distinctive soundtrack to begin with.
The fact that Rodriguez’s music can unexpectedly help fuel a revolution, or Kubrick’s The Shining could plant the seeds to a tree of conspiracy, or a  core set of pagan gods could provide the backbone to thousands of plays is something that marks the dynamic nature of human creativity. Something that should be both nourished and celebrated.