Movies
Some people can read War and Peace and come away thinking it’s a simple adventure story. Others can read the ingredients on a chewing gum wrapper and unlock the secrets of the universe.
— Lex Luthor • Superman
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
The contrast makes understanding depend on the reader as much as the material. A great novel can seem simple, while a chewing-gum wrapper can prompt extraordinary insight. The exaggeration gives something ordinary surprising depth and makes a grand book no guarantee of a grand response.
Context reviewed