Reality and Individual Interpretations

“There are no facts, only interpretations.” These words from Frederick Nietzsche poignantly illustrate the notion that one’s reality is inevitably shaped by the influence of other’s around us. The set of values according to which one judges everyday events upon is the result of the reality formed based on other’s interpretations of the world. When one lacks the knowledge to develop a sound reality, one relies upon the reality of others to come to a sensible interpretation. However, though one may be adamant that the reality that one experiences is real, others’ continual influence upon them may eventually persuade them and thus conform to the newfound reality. Nevertheless, it is still dependant on the individual on the way they deal with others’ interpretation that ultimately determines their reality.

One relies upon the knowledge and interpretation of others to develop a sound and fortified reality. When one lacks knowledge of a certain event, one’s interpretation of that particular event may be skewed or incomplete. Hence, one relies on other’s information or interpretation in order to come to a more complete reality. This notion is illustrated in Ian McEwan’s novel, Enduring Love. Joe Rose’s perception of the ballooning accident was skewed due to his involvement, thus, he relies on Clarissa’s memory and interpretations of that particular event to develop a more complete and well-informed reality about what had occurred. Moreover, when an event truly perplexes an individual due to a lack of understanding of the event, one, again, has to rely on the information of others to determine a plausible reality. Hence, one’s reality of that event is dependants on whom one receives information off. During childhood, one experiences m...

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... attempts at convincing his mother that they were “ready for this” poignantly illustrate how she may have avoided much pain if she had accepted his interpretation of reality instead. Furthermore, it is also explored by McEwan through the interpretations made by Joe. Joe absorbs Clarissa’s interpretations of Jed, but ultimately ignores it and is adamant on his own version of events. Joe’s ignorance of other’s interpretation exemplify that it is essentially up to one’s judgement and decision that forms one’s reality no matter the degree to which others try to persuade them.

It is evident that one’s reality is principally formed upon other’s interpretations and perceptions. Thus, “our realities are indeed never determined solely by ourselves”, but rather one holds the final decision as to how other’s realities affect them and ultimately one’s perception of reality.