intentionalist

An intentionalist is a person who believes that the intentions of the author or creator are paramount when interpreting a work of art, literature, or any other creative output. This perspective holds that understanding what the creator meant to convey is the key to unlocking the true meaning of the work. Intentionalists often seek out biographical information about the creator, historical context, and statements made by the creator to support their interpretations.

Conversely, a non-intentionalist viewpoint argues that once a work is released into the world, it takes on a life of its own and its meaning is determined by the audience's reception and interpretation. This approach, sometimes called the "death of the author," suggests that the creator's intentions are irrelevant or unknowable, and that the reader or viewer is free to derive their own meaning.

The debate between intentionalism and non-intentionalism is a long-standing one in literary theory and art criticism. Intentionalism can provide a framework for understanding a work within its original context and can be particularly useful when dealing with historical texts or works that have been subject to misinterpretation. However, critics argue that it can limit the potential meanings of a work and can be difficult to definitively ascertain the creator's true intentions.