The Perils of Over-Reading: Understanding the Common Phenomenon of Interpreting More than Intended

Over-reading is a common phenomenon in which readers interpret more meaning or information into a text than what the author actually intended. This can happen for various reasons, such as:

1. Personal biases: Readers may bring their own experiences, beliefs, and assumptions to the text, which can lead them to interpret it in a way that is not supported by the evidence.
2. Prior knowledge: If readers have prior knowledge about the topic or subject matter of the text, they may assume that certain information is implied or suggested when it is not actually there.
3. Cultural background: Readers from different cultural backgrounds may interpret the same text differently based on their own cultural values and beliefs.
4. Language barriers: Non-native speakers of the language in which the text is written may struggle to understand certain words, phrases, or idioms, leading them to over-read the text and infer meanings that are not intended.
5. Lack of context: If readers do not have enough context about the topic or subject matter of the text, they may over-read it and interpret it in a way that is not accurate.

Over-reading can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and incorrect assumptions about the text. It is important for readers to be aware of their own biases and assumptions when reading a text, and to approach the text with an open mind and a critical eye.